The treasure of fairy tales is their call to adventure for everyone who hears or reads them, a call to an adventure of the imagination. The story of the Ugly Duckling, for instance, speaks to everyone who has ever felt lonely or unloved. The story of the Billy-Goats Gruff speaks to everyone who has felt small or weak. In a fairy story, there is always help, and extra inspiration, a helpful friend, a dream that hints at an answer, a fairy godmother, a lucky chance. No matter what the problem, there is always a helper. Fairy tales are full of hope. From story hour to bedtime, this beautiful anthology of fairy tales, nursery rhymes, and verse will provide pleasure for young children and adults - who are sure to rediscover old favourites. This collection is lavishly illustrated throughout using images by famous children's book artists in addition to those specially commissioned.