A collection of short stories for children that adults can appreciate for its irony and dark humor. The depth of these tales is often overlooked by younger readers.
This reviewer appreciates The Happy Prince and Other Tales as a collection that goes beyond its surface-level simplicity. They note that while the stories are intended for children, adults can find layers of irony and dark humor that add depth. The reviewer reflects on how, as a child, they might not have fully appreciated these nuances, highlighting the timeless appeal of Wilde's writing.
Quick quotes
It is a collection of short stories for children, but I don't think I as a child was able to appreciate the irony and dark humour that exists in this book.
The seemingly simplistic and fantastical stories it contain are more than what meet the eyes.
There are flashes of wit and a guiding paradox, but on the whole, the tone is as leaden as the statue's heart.