Charles Perrault

Born in Paris on January 12, 1628, Charles Perrault became a prominent French author and a member of the Académie Française. He also worked in public service during the reign of Louis XIV, moving in important literary and cultural circles of his time.

Perrault is remembered above all for helping establish the fairy tale as a respected literary form. His 1697 collection, often known in English as Tales of Mother Goose, brought together stories adapted from older oral traditions and made famous versions of Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Little Red Riding Hood, Bluebeard, Puss in Boots, and Tom Thumb.

What makes his work last is its clarity and charm. His tales are simple enough to feel timeless, yet sharp enough to carry wit, danger, and moral lessons, which is why they have remained part of childhood reading and storytelling ever since his death in Paris in May 1703.