Bewick's Select Fables of Æsop and others.

A compact anthology gathers Aesop’s timeless tales alongside lesser‑known fables, arranged in three sections: classic selections drawn from earlier collections, stories followed by thoughtful reflections in both prose and verse, and a final suite presented entirely in poetry. Each narrative is concise yet vivid, using animal characters and simple plots to reveal universal lessons about pride, generosity, folly and wisdom. The volume opens with a brief biography of Aesop, setting the stage for the moral imagination that runs through the whole work.

What makes this edition especially charming are the original wood‑engravings of Thomas Bewick, whose delicate lines bring the creatures and countryside to life with surprising detail. Complementing the pictures, Oliver Goldsmith’s introductory essay explains the power of fable as a gentle teacher of virtue. Listeners will find a blend of entertainment and insight, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection.