R750.00
As an early twentieth-century edition, Fairy Tales reflects the continued international appeal of Andersen’s work decades after the stories were first published.
1 in stock
Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Andersen, published around 1925 by George G. Harrap & Company, presents a classic English-language collection of the celebrated stories that established Andersen as one of the most influential writers of literary fairy tales. Andersen’s stories, first written in Danish during the nineteenth century, achieved worldwide popularity for their imaginative storytelling, emotional depth, and moral insight. By the early twentieth century they had become a staple of children’s literature, with publishers such as Harrap issuing handsome illustrated editions for the growing family and gift book market.
In Fairy Tales, readers encounter many of Andersen’s best-loved stories, including enduring classics such as The Ugly Duckling, The Little Mermaid, The Snow Queen, Thumbelina, and The Princess and the Pea. These tales combine elements of folklore with Andersen’s distinctive narrative voice, blending fantasy, humour, and poignant reflection. Though often written for children, the stories frequently explore deeper themes of transformation, resilience, compassion, and the search for belonging. Andersen’s ability to weave simple narrative forms with emotional complexity helped elevate the fairy tale into a respected literary genre.
As an early twentieth-century edition, Fairy Tales reflects the continued international appeal of Andersen’s work decades after the stories were first published. The Harrap editions of the period were often attractively produced and frequently illustrated, contributing to their enduring popularity among readers and collectors. This c.1925 George G. Harrap & Company printing remains a charming and collectible example of classic children’s literature, appealing to admirers of traditional fairy tales as well as collectors of illustrated storybook editions.
Condition – Fair Large-format grey cloth hardcover illustrated in black. The boards show moderate to heavy surface wear, rubbing and general handling marks consistent with age, with notable fraying and loss to cloth at the head and tail of the spine. Spine design remains visible though discoloured. Binding remains secure and the book sits solidly despite external wear. Prior ownership and gift inscription in ink to the endpaper, which also has loss to the lower corner.
Internally complete with all pages present; one illustration (frontispiece) and one tissue guard lacking. Several remaining tissue guards show tears and edge wear, with occasional small tears to illustrated pages as noted. Text block edges toned with age and light handling wear to corners.
