Grade 4-6?A lackluster collection in which stories from the mid-1800s and early 1900s have been adapted by Williams in a workmanlike fashion. This title boasts of nature spirit tales from around the world, but the stories are rather flat, lacking the magic that one would expect in such a book. Instead, lessons abound and many a mortal learns kindness, humility, and generosity at the hands of the wee sprites. Barrett's profuse illustrations are vivid and appealing but lack distinction. Most libraries will be well satisfied with the various Lang fairy books and never miss this unimpressive offering.?Anne Connor, Los Angeles Public Library
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From Booklist
Gr. 5^-7, younger for reading aloud. Many of the most popular fairy tales are not really about fairies, but this anthology offers retellings of tales in which fairies play a starring role. The introduction gives some general history of fairies' role in mythology and uses examples from the stories in the collection to establish a link between fairies and the natural world. The eight stories have been drawn from such diverse countries as France, Ireland, Japan, and India. The story choices are good, and the retellings are competent. Robin Barrett's illustrations, in airy pastel colors, lend a lovely, ethereal quality that enhances the text. Youngsters may enjoy searching the pictures for the flowers and trees said to be associated with fairies, which are described in the closing section "Fairy Flora." This section, the introduction, and the source notes will be helpful research aids. Lauren Peterson
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