Description J. M. Dent & Sons, Toronto, 1959, 4th pr. Hard cover, 276 pages including Questions and Exercises. Boards have light edge wear, bit of corner and spine end wear; a few small stains on bottom page block; binding sound. Interior clean and unmarked. Includes: Tales and Legends of the Old World; Tales and Legends of the New World, Poems of Conflict; The Sea; The Outdoors; Pioneering; People; Animals; The Coalfields; Negro Songs and Stories; A Bit of Philosophy; Christmas; Humour; Sound and Sense, and Much In Little – Epigrams, Epitaphs and Vignettes.

Overview

This edition is a comprehensive collection that captures a rich tapestry of folklore, poetry, and cultural reflections. Each section offers readers a unique glimpse into different aspects of human experience, from the mystical allure of ancient tales to the vivid portrayals of everyday life and nature.

Content Highlights

• Tales and Legends of the Old World: Dive into timeless myths and fables that have shaped Western storytelling traditions.
• Tales and Legends of the New World: Explore narratives rooted in the Americas, blending indigenous stories with colonial histories.
• Poems of Conflict: Reflect on the human cost of war and struggle through poignant verses.
• The Sea & The Outdoors: Celebrate the majesty of nature and the adventurous spirit that draws people to the wild.
• Pioneering & People: Stories and poems that honor the resilience and determination of early settlers and communities.
• Animals & The Coalfields: Insights into the natural world and the industrial backdrop that shaped many lives.
• Negro Songs and Stories: A valuable inclusion that preserves the rich oral traditions and cultural heritage of African American communities.
• A Bit of Philosophy: Thought-provoking reflections that invite readers to ponder life’s deeper meanings.
• Christmas & Humour: Light-hearted and festive pieces that offer warmth and laughter.
• Sound and Sense, and Much In Little: A collection of epigrams, epitaphs, and vignettes that showcase wit and brevity.

Additional Features

The book concludes with thoughtfully designed questions and exercises, encouraging readers to engage critically with the text and deepen their appreciation of the material.

Condition and Collectibility

Given its age, the book remains in remarkably good condition. The minor wear on the boards and slight staining on the page block do not detract from its overall appeal. Its sound binding and clean interior make it a desirable volume for collectors and enthusiasts of literary anthologies.

Conclusion

J. M. Dent & Sons’1959 Toronto edition stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and poetry. Its diverse content and careful curation make it an enriching addition to any literary collection, offering both historical insight and timeless enjoyment.