The Sleeping Beauty and other fairy tales from the Old French

This collection gathers some of the most beloved fairy tales from the French tradition—stories like Sleeping Beauty, Bluebeard, Cinderella, and Beauty and the Beast—presented in a fresh, accessible English retelling. The translator has drawn from the rich 18th‑century compilations that once filled the shelves of French aristocratic salons, preserving the original charm while smoothing the language for modern ears. Listeners will find familiar motifs of enchantment, danger, and redemption, each told with a gentle narrative voice that honors the tales’ timeless appeal.

Adding to the experience, the volumes are accompanied by the luminous artwork of Edmund Dulac, whose delicate water‑colors bring each scene to life with vivid color and subtle detail. The preface offers a brief glimpse into the historical world that produced these stories, reminding us of the elegant, courtly atmosphere of pre‑revolutionary France. Together, the retellings and illustrations create an inviting journey into a world where magic and morality intertwine, perfect for a cozy listening session.