Presenting The Essential Tales of Wonder: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass by Lewis Carroll, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum, and Peter Pan or Peter and Wendy by J. M. Barrie with an introduction by Nicholas Tamblyn, and illustrations by Katherine Eglund. This collection is part of The Essential Series by Golding Books. The stories of Alice, Dorothy, and Peter Pan have long been at the heart of children's literature, as well as being cultural touchstones around the world. As early fantasy novels and classics of English and American literature they are also unique and spellbinding in their own ways, both as the thinking person's literature and escapism, not only for children but for readers of all ages. Unforgettable and singular characters abound: the Wicked Witch, the Queen of Hearts, the grinning Cheshire Cat, Oz the Great and Powerful in the Emerald City, the Scarecrow and Tin Man and Cowardly Lion, Tinker Bell, Captain Hook . . . Shrewd but flawed characters, enchanting and gripping adventures, resourceful children and strong female characters and the Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up. Above all, there is a sense of wonder at what is possible that touches the reader like few other children's books or fantasy novels, and such adventurous feel-good stories also have in them a great power to make us think. A few words from Nicholas Tamblyn's introduction: Adults and children are not that different, far less different than some may think. Adults enjoy blowing bubbles, singing silly songs, playing seemingly frivolous games, and reading about strange and wonderful adventures, but somewhere along the way we are told to be more serious, to work hard and earn more money to support those around us, to "put away childish things." It is possible to remain young at heart, and few things are more important. The most important lesson of childhood is to keep its sentiments of hope and joy alive into the years beyond, and children are at something of an advantage in cultivating this feeling! One of the best ways that we can embrace wonder, whether we are young or old, is to share it . . .