The Hidden Servants and Other Very Old Stories

Name: The Hidden Servants and Other Very Old Stories
Author: Francesca Alexander

By Francesca Alexander

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Mythology, Legends & Folklore Poetry Short Stories

About This Book

A lyrical collection of retold very old legends and ballads rendered in simple verse and accompanied by drawings. The poems present devotional and moral tales—hermits and hidden helpers, saints and penitents, miraculous origins and domestic wonders—framed by a storyteller's voice aimed at children and sympathetic adults. Recurrent themes include faith, charity, humble beauty, and the continuity of oral tradition; narrative modes shift between direct balladry and reflective introductions that recall fireside telling. Imagery is pastoral and reverent, with an emphasis on making traditional lore vivid and accessible for new generations.

About the Author

Francesca Alexander

Francesca Alexander was an American author and illustrator known for her contributions to children's literature and her interest in folklore. She is particularly recognized for her work "The Hidden Servants and Other Very Old Stories," which showcases her ability to weave enchanting tales inspired by various cultural traditions. In addition to her storytelling, Alexander's artistic talents are evident in her illustrations, which complement her narratives beautifully. Her other notable work, "The Story of Ida: Epitaph on an Etrurian Tomb," reflects her fascination with history and mythology, further establishing her as a unique voice in her literary era.