The history of the fable likely does not originate with Aesop; however it is with him that we associate the fable's most ancient of known origins. Little is actually known of the life of Aesop. According to the historical accounts of Herodotus, Aristotle, and Plutarch, he was a slave from the Greek island of Samos who lived between 620 and 564 BC. Described as a strikingly ugly man he is said to have secured his freedom through his cleverness. Known for his wit, Aesop would become employed as an advisor by kings and city-states. The simplicity of the fable cannot be overstated. The short narrative form and the use of animals to personifying particular human characteristics makes the fable a particularly useful form of instruction for imparting bits of wisdom to children. Dozens of fables have been attributed to Aesop, however given their sometimes conflicting moral lessons, the attribution of some fables to Aesop is considered by certain scholars as to be spurious. Collected together here are some of the most famous examples of Aesop's fables. This edition follows the translation of V. S. Vernon Jones, includes an introduction by G. K. Chesterton, is illustrated by Arthur Rackham, and is printed on premium acid-free paper.

A collection of animal fables told by the Greek slave Aesop.

The prodigiously talented Golden Age Master of Illustration lends his distinct humor and romanticism to these enchanting and enduring morality tales. Boasting 13 full-color and 53 black-and-white illustrations — plus an illuminating Introduction by G. K. Chesterton — this keepsake treasury is one of the most magical Aesop editions ever published.

This classic fully illustrated treasury of Aesop's fables makes the perfect gift for any young reader or family while teaching values and morals. Get in step with the colorful animals that race, waddle, and leap through these pages! From a fast-footed monkey to a two-timing fox, each creature has a story to tell and a moral to teach. These famous tales tickle the imagination and teach simple truths, ones that children and adults face every day. Inside are twenty classic fables, including The Tortoise and the Hare, The Goose Who Laid the Golden Eggs, and The City Mouse and the Country Mouse. Passed from generation to generation, Aesop's best-loved fables are presented here with beautiful illustrations that bring these naughty, bold, brave, and lovable creatures to life.

The master from the Golden Age of Illustration lends his distinct humor and romanticism to these enchanting and enduring morality tales with 13 full-color and 53 black-and-white illustrations.

Revive your childhood wonder and fascination with the most exquisitely illustrated edition of Aesop’s Fables —featuring breathtaking original artwork by #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Charles Santore! Captivating the hearts and minds of kids and adults for generations, Aesop, a former Greek slave, developed simple and meaningful adventures featuring animals or insects to teach a moral standard or lesson for living. The most well-known and well loved of Aesop's fables are included here: - The Hare and the Tortoise - The Lion and the Mouse - The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse - The Wolf in Sheep's Clothing This Classic Edition: - Is great for children ages 4 - 8 - Perfect for family read-alouds or story at bedtime - Lavish illustrations by renowned, New York Times #1 Bestselling artist Charles Santore, the critically-acclaimed illustrator of multiple classic tales, including The Velveteen Rabbit, and The Classic Tale of Peter Rabbit, and The Night Before Christmas - Makes a great holiday, Advent, or Christmas gift Charles Santore’s work has been widely exhibited in museums and celebrated with recognitions such as the prestigious Hamilton King Award, the Society of Illustrators Award of Excellence, and the Original Art 2000 Gold Medal from the Society of Illustrators. He is best known for his luminous interpretations of classic children’s stories, including The Little Mermaid, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Snow White, and The Wizard of Oz.