A classic nineteenth-century fairy tale of adventure, magic, and good deeds, with an ironic sense of humor, brought back to life with illustrations by Quentin Blake.
The King of the Golden River tells the tale of the Black brothers: the kind-natured eleven- year-old Gluck and his two nasty older brothers, Hans and Schwartz. For Gluck, play is cleaning the floors, and his education consists of a wholesome quantity of punches. One stormy evening, Gluck is left at home to prepare his older brothers dinner when an extraordinary-looking little man knocks at the door. Having been warned not to let anyone in, Gluck watches as the little old man stands drenched and shivering at the door. His soft heart tells him to ignore his brothers advice, and so Glucks encounter with the mysterious King of the Golden River begins. Appearing at first as a beggar, then the Southwest Wind, and finally as a dwarf, the King of the Golden River issues Gluck a challenge: to climb to the source of the Golden River and throw into the stream three drops of holy water. If he can achieve this, the river will turn to gold.
Ruskins Victorian talefirst published in 1842of goods triumph over evil is a gripping adventure for all ages, and is brought vividly to life in new, never-before- seen illustrations by the celebrated Quentin Blake. 35 color illustrations
Embark on a timeless journey of adventure, morality, and whimsical fantasy with *The King of the Golden River* by John Ruskin, brought to vibrant life with stunning illustrations by the incomparable Quentin Blake. This beautifully illustrated edition of Ruskin's classic fairy tale, first published in 1841, offers a fresh perspective on a beloved story, captivating readers of all ages. Dive into the tale of Gluck, a kind-hearted young boy burdened by his cruel and greedy older brothers, Hans and Schwartz. Their miserly ways and contempt for others bring misfortune upon them, leading to the desolation of their once fertile valley. One fateful evening, a mysterious visitor arrives at their doorstep the King of the Golden River, disguised as a beggar, and later revealing himself as the Southwest Wind, Esquire, and a mischievous dwarf. Driven by compassion, Gluck defies his brothers' instructions and offers the stranger shelter. This act of kindness sets in motion a series of extraordinary events. The King of the Golden River presents Gluck with a daunting challenge: to ascend to the source of the Golden River and cast into its waters three drops of holy water. Success promises to transform the river into gold, restoring prosperity to the land. But the journey is fraught with peril and tests the limits of Gluck's character. As Gluck braves treacherous landscapes and encounters various obstacles, he exemplifies empathy, generosity, and unwavering integrity. In stark contrast, Hans and Schwartz, consumed by greed, attempt the same quest, but their selfishness and cruelty lead them down a path of ruin. Ruskin's masterful storytelling blends elements of fantasy, morality tale, and social commentary. *The King of the Golden River* explores themes of good versus evil, the corrupting influence of greed, and the transformative power of kindness. It's a story that resonates deeply, reminding us of the importance of compassion and the consequences of our choices. This edition is particularly special due to Quentin Blake's delightful illustrations. His signature style, characterized by expressive lines and whimsical details, perfectly complements Ruskin's imaginative world. Blake's artwork brings the characters and landscapes to life, adding a new layer of depth and charm to the story. Readers will be enchanted by his depictions of Gluck, the Black Brothers, and the mischievous King of the Golden River himself. This edition includes 35 stunning color illustrations. John Ruskin (1819-1900) was a prominent English art critic, writer, and social thinker of the Victorian era. Although best known for his writings on art and architecture, *The King of the Golden River* stands as a testament to his versatility as a storyteller. Written originally for Effie Gray, the 12 year old who would later become his wife, the tale reflects Ruskin's moral and social concerns, packaged within an engaging narrative. Ruskin's other works include *Modern Painters*, *The Stones of Venice*, and *Unto This Last*. *The King of the Golden River* remains one of his most enduring and beloved works. Rediscover the magic of *The King of the Golden River* in this beautifully illustrated edition. It's a timeless tale that will spark the imagination and warm the hearts of readers young and old. Perfect for bedtime stories, classroom discussions, or simply a moment of pure reading pleasure, this book is a treasure to be cherished for generations to come. Its 64 pages of captivating prose and vivid illustrations will transport you to a world where good triumphs over evil and kindness reigns supreme. Add this delightful hardcover edition to your collection today!
