Book excerpt: It is almost impossible to envision what childhood would be like without the enchanting world of fairyland. Princes and princesses, flying dragons, monsters and magicians, giants and dwarfs, ogres and fairies—these are the companions who thrill youngsters of all lands and times. This book contains 19 such tales. Coming from all quarters of the world, including France, England, Germany, Russia and Persia, the stories provide rich insight into the lives and cultures of different peoples. Narrated in clear, lively and easy to understand language, the tales are enriched with beautiful illustrations.