In this deeply learned book, poet and translator Robert Bly offers nothing less than a new vision of what it is to be a man.Bly's vision is based on his ongoing work with men and reflections on his own life. He addresses the devastating effects of remote fathers and mourns the disappearance of male initiation rites in our culture. Finding rich meaning in ancient stories and legends, Bly uses the Grimm fairy tale "Iron John," in which the narrator, or "Wild Man," guides a young man through eight stages of male growth, to remind us of archetypes long forgotten-images of vigorous masculinity, both protective and emotionally centered.Simultaneously poetic and down-to-earth, combining the grandeur of myth with the practical and often painful lessons of our own histories, Iron John is a rare work that will continue to guide and inspire men-and women-for years to come.

Arthur Ransome's 'Ultimate Collection' is a literary masterpiece that beautifully combines various genres such as adventure, children's fiction, and travel writing. The collection showcases Ransome's ability to transport readers to different worlds through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling. Ransome's writing style is captivating, with a focus on character development and detailed world-building, making the stories come alive on the page. His works are a perfect example of timeless classics that continue to resonate with readers of all ages. The 'Ultimate Collection' includes beloved titles such as 'Swallows and Amazons', 'We Didn't Mean to Go to Sea', and 'Secret Water', each offering a unique and immersive reading experience. Arthur Ransome's contribution to literature is commendable, and this collection serves as a testament to his unparalleled talent and creativity. Fans of adventure, exploration, and well-crafted storytelling will find this collection to be a true treasure trove of literary gems.

Down the mountain, one orc who asks too many questions tumbles, fleeing his past, with only an elven horse, a pair of boots, and an old book for company. Below the whole world awaits him, filled with humans, elves, trolls, and a thousand other monsters that make a habit of killing little orcs like Talking-Wind. Worse than any of them is the Lady of Firebrand Peak, the dragon who told Talking-Wind to stay put and wait to be eaten like a good orc. Orcs hate questions, but the one thing they hate more than orcs that ask too many questions is an orc looking for all the answers. The pursuit of dangerous knowledge only ever leads to trouble for the tribe. The Lady is not kind, nor is she forgiving. If Talking-Wind wishes to have any kind of chance to survive he will have to understand why dragons are what they are, and what makes dragons do what dragons do. If he can stay one step ahead of the Lady of Firebrand Peak maybe, just maybe, he might even find a way to fight back. Talking-Wind will need answers. And a lot of them.

Set in an Ibo village in Nigeria, the novel recreates pre-Christian tribal life and shows how the coming the white man led to the breaking up of the old ways.

The Greatest Fairytales of All Time' presents an unparalleled collection that weaves through the rich tapestry of fairy tale tradition, encompassing a wide array of literary styles from the whimsical to the profound. This anthology captures the essence of cultural storytelling, showcasing the diversity and significance of its contents by bringing together iconic tales that have stood the test of time. The works within this compilation vary from the fantastical wonderlands of Lewis Carroll to the poignant social critiques of Oscar Wilde, illustrating the broad spectrum of human experience and imagination encapsulated in the fairy tale genre. The inclusion of lesser-known gems alongside universally celebrated stories offers readers a comprehensive insight into the genre's developmental narrative and its ability to convey complex truths through simple tales. The contributing authors and editors, spanning across the 19th and early 20th centuries, are luminaries in their own rights, with each bringing a unique cultural and literary perspective to the anthology. This collection is situated at the confluence of numerous literary movements—from Romanticism to Symbolism— and reflects the societal transition from oral folk traditions to printed literary works. The diversity of backgrounds, from the Brothers Grimm's Germanic folklore to Hans Christian Andersen's Danish tales, underlines the universal appeal and adaptability of fairy tales across different cultures and epochs. Their collective contributions embody the evolution of the fairy tale, enriching the reader's understanding of its enduring legacy and relevance. 'The Greatest Fairytales of All Time' is an indispensable resource for anyone keen on exploring the depths of human imagination and the variety of ways it has been manifested in literature. It serves as a valuable educational tool, offering insights into the historical and cultural contexts of these timeless stories. Moreover, this anthology invites readers into a dialogue spanning centuries, encouraging a deeper appreciation of how these divergent narratives mirror the complexities of human nature and society. This collection promises not just entertainment, but a profound engagement with the world's shared heritage of storytelling.