Arguably the most famous and beloved of Oscar Wilde's nine fairy tales,
this particular rendition stands apart from the others due to its
brilliant illustrations by a a master of comic art. After dying young,
the Happy Prince's soul inhabits a beautiful ruby-encrusted statue
covered in gold leaf which is perched high above the city. But when he
sees the poverty, misery and desperateness of his people, he enlists the
help of a barn swallow to remove the gilding of his statue and shower
the riches on his people. In the spring, the townspeople are saved, but
find only a stripped down and dull statue alongside a dead swallow. The
remains are tossed into an ash heap, but an emissary of God recognizes
their sacrifice, and escorts them into the gardens of Heaven. Perfect
for middle school students as an introduction to the world-famous
author, the dazzling illustrations in this book suit the timeless
writings of Wilde.