
A bright autumn morning finds a lively troupe of children gathered on the porch of the country estate Tanglewood, eager for a nut‑gathering adventure. The valley is shrouded in a soft, rolling mist that turns the surrounding hills into a dream‑like seascape, while sunlight dapples the landscape in golden hues. Their playful chatter and curious spirits set the stage for a gentle foray into a world where ordinary countryside meets the echo of ancient legend.
As the youngsters wander through dewy grass and whispering woods, they stumble upon the mysterious tale of the Gorgon’s head, a myth reshaped for youthful imaginations. Hawthorne’s retelling blends the timeless wonder of classical folklore with a cozy, almost gothic charm, inviting listeners to feel the thrill of discovery without overwhelming complexity. The story balances lighthearted adventure with a hint of the uncanny, making it a perfect listen for children who love both nature’s beauty and the magic of old myths.
Full title
The Gorgon's Head (From: "A Wonder-Book for Girls and Boys")
Language
en
Duration
~1 hours (59K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by David Widger and Al Haines
Release date
2005-11-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1804–1864
Best known for dark, beautifully crafted classics like The Scarlet Letter and The House of the Seven Gables, this major American writer explored guilt, secrecy, and the moral pressure of life in Puritan New England. His stories mix psychological depth with a haunting sense of history that still feels fresh today.
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