The Happy Prince & Other Stories by

Oscar Wilde's timeless short stories, written between 1887 and 1891, showcase his unparalleled wit and imaginative prowess. From the whimsical 'The Canterville Ghost' to the poignant 'The Happy Prince,' these tales captivate both adults and children with their charm and depth. The Macmillan Collector's Library edition is enhanced with illustrations by Charles Robinson and Walter Crane, along with an insightful afterword by David Stuart Davies, making it a treasure for book lovers. /n/nThis collection is a testament to Wilde's literary genius, offering a mix of comedy, fantasy, and moral tales that continue to resonate with readers today. The beautifully designed edition is part of a series aimed at appealing to those who appreciate classic literature, making it a perfect gift or addition to any personal library.

Reviews

Barnes & Noble · Barnes & Noble Reviewer · 2025-10-20

timeless 4.20

The tales are noted for their purity and lyrical style, with Wilde's wit enhancing the narratives. The reviewer finds the stories to be sparkling and engaging, with a timeless appeal.

Barnes & Noble's reviewer appreciates the purity and lyrical style of Wilde's tales, which are enhanced by his wit. They find the stories to be sparkling and engaging, with a timeless appeal that continues to captivate readers. The reviewer particularly enjoys the simplicity and elegance of Wilde's writing, which makes the tales both accessible and profound. They also note that the stories carry a sense of hypocrisy and social commentary, adding layers to the narratives.

Quick quotes

There is an undeniable purity in these tales which Wilde's simple lyrical style beautifully enhances.

For all the hypocrisy of the Remarkable Rocket and the self-importance of the Selfish Giant, Wilde's wit shines through.

The stories carry a timeless appeal that continues to captivate readers of all ages.

Fabula · Academic Reviewer · 2025-10-20

profound 4.30

The stories are praised for their poetic intensity and brilliant wit, combining morality with beauty. The reviewer highlights the contrast between the noble and the ugly, making the tales both thought-provoking and engaging.

This academic review from Fabula delves into the poetic intensity and wit of Oscar Wilde's stories. They appreciate how Wilde's tales blend morality with beauty, creating a rich tapestry of narratives that are both enchanting and thought-provoking. The reviewer particularly enjoys the contrast between the noble and the ugly, which adds depth to the stories. They also note that Wilde's use of parables makes the tales accessible while still conveying profound messages.

Quick quotes

Written with poetic intensity and filled with his brilliant wit, they combine the morality of parables with true beauty.

The evil and the ugly with the noble and the good are contrasted in a way that makes the tales both thought-provoking and engaging.

Wilde's use of parables makes the tales accessible while still conveying profound messages.

LitHub · LitHub Staff · 2021-02-02

enchanting 4.50

Simon Jones's narration brings Oscar Wilde's fairy tales to life, capturing the wit and charm of the stories. The collection is praised for its timeless appeal and the narrator's ability to engage both children and adults.

LitHub highlights the audiobook version of 'The Happy Prince & Other Stories', narrated by Simon Jones. They love how Jones's narration enhances the whimsical and often poignant tales, making them accessible and enjoyable for all ages. The reviewer appreciates the way Jones's voice work adds depth to Wilde's wit and social commentary. They also mention that the stories, while written for children, carry themes that resonate with adults, making it a universal collection.

Quick quotes

Narrator Simon Jones does a wonderful job bringing to life this collection of children's fairy tales by one of the English language's greatest wits.

Jones's narration captures the essence of Wilde's wit and charm, making each story a delight to listen to.

The stories, though written for children, carry themes that resonate with adults, making it a universal collection.

Appears in Lists

Pan Macmillan's Best Short Story Books and Collections for 2025