Tanglewood Tales

Name: Tanglewood Tales
Author: Nathaniel Hawthorne

By Nathaniel Hawthorne

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Children & Young Adult Reading Mythology, Legends & Folklore

About This Book

A narrator frames a cozy country visit and entertains a youthful guest with simplified retellings of classical myths aimed at young readers. The collection presents episodes about labyrinths and monsters, tiny nations and towering giants, the sowing of dragon's teeth, enchanted palaces, the pomegranate-bound underworld, and a perilous maritime quest for a coveted prize. Each tale balances lively description and gentle moral reflection, alternating brisk action with explanatory asides and whimsical detail, so that mythic adventures are rendered accessible and instructive without losing their original wonder.

About the Author

Nathaniel Hawthorne

Nathaniel Hawthorne was an American novelist and short story writer, born in 1804 in Salem, Massachusetts. He is best known for his exploration of moral complexity and the human condition, often set against the backdrop of New England's Puritan heritage. His notable works include "The Scarlet Letter," which delves into themes of sin and redemption, and "The House of the Seven Gables," a tale of guilt and retribution. Hawthorne's writing is characterized by its rich symbolism and psychological depth, making significant contributions to American literature. His stories often reflect his fascination with the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of isolation.