First published in 1807, the tales were written to introduce Shakespeare to children by extracting an unclouded and approachable story-line from the complex texts of the plays and to offer the young a rich moral education. The tales are now loved by those who want to know, in simple terms, what happens. The stories vividly recreate the world of the high tragedies –- the story of Timon of Athens, the storm scene in King Lear, the plotting of Iago, the chronicle of Pericles –- as well as the best-loved comedies.

Confirmed Shakespeareans will enjoy them for their warmth of heart, and admirers of Charles Lamb will discover yet another facet of the compelling author who became one of the greatest writers of occasional prose.