Penguin Popular Classics The highly evocative stories in this treasury of tales have become part of our heritage and culture and are an essential part of every child"s imaginative upbringing.In bringing to life a host of unforgettable characters such as Tom Thumb, the Frog-Prince and Ashputtel, the Brothers Grimm created a feast of stories to stimulate the mind and emotions of readers of all ages. Some of the tales are sinister, some funny; others teach us about love, compassion or revenge, greed, cruelty or kindness. Because of their enormous range and scope, they form a vital part of our understanding of the world. As popular today as they were when they were first published, these stories should find a place on the bookshelf of every home. As well as leading us to strange lands where birds and beasts dwell with dwarves, giants, princesses and peasants, they will continue to delight, terrify and educate readers, young and old.