'The Story of Bluebeard' is taken from the Perrault original, and illustrated with pictures and ornaments by Joseph E. Southall. Perrault (1628-1703) was among the first writers to bring magical children's stories into the literary mainstream, proving to their original seventeenth century readers that such works were important, enjoyable, as well as thought-provoking. The tale of 'Bluebeard' has stood the test of time; enchanting readers with its other-worldly combination of horror and fairy-tale-ending. The text is accompanied and surrounded by the wonderful black-and-white illustrations of Southall (1861-1944) who was heavily associated with the Arts and Crafts Movement; one of the last outposts of romanticism in the visual arts. Southall's masterful creations serve to further refine and enhance Perrault's magical story - making this a book to be enjoyed and appreciated by both young and old alike.
