The Holy Cross and Other Tales   By: Eugene Field (1850-1895)

The Holy Cross and Other Tales is a captivating collection of stories by Eugene Field. Field, known for his ability to weave enchanting narratives, takes readers on a journey through a variety of settings and time periods.

The book opens with "The Holy Cross," a tale set in medieval France. The protagonist, Anthony Ware, encounters a mysterious knight who presents him with a simple wooden cross. This seemingly insignificant object holds a power beyond Anthony's imagination, ultimately transforming his life. Field's masterful storytelling brings the medieval era to life, with vivid descriptions and a sense of time and place that immerse readers in this enchanting world.

Continuing through the collection, readers are treated to a range of stories that explore different themes and genres. "The Duke's Fool" presents a heartwarming narrative about an unlikely hero who uses his wit and humor to outwit a cunning adversary. Field's ability to create memorable characters shines bright in this story, capturing the reader's attention from beginning to end.

"The Boy and The Brook" is another standout tale, focusing on the friendship between a young boy and a lively brook. Field's poetic prose beautifully captures the innocence and wonder of childhood, reminding readers of the simple joys that can be found in nature.

Throughout the entire collection, Field's writing style stands out for its elegance and grace. His use of language is lyrical, painting vivid pictures in the reader's mind. Each story is meticulously crafted, with well-developed characters and plotlines that keep readers engaged until the final page.

One of the remarkable aspects of this collection is its ability to appeal to readers of all ages. The tales are suitable for adults seeking a nostalgic escape or young readers exploring the world of fiction for the first time. The stories possess a timeless quality, reminding us of the enchantment that can be found in storytelling.

If there is one downside to The Holy Cross and Other Tales, it may be the brevity of some stories. There are moments where the reader yearns for deeper exploration of certain characters or plotlines. However, this does not take away from the overall enjoyment and enrichment that these tales offer.

In conclusion, The Holy Cross and Other Tales is an enthralling collection of stories that showcases Eugene Field's immense talent as a storyteller. The book is a testament to the power of imagination and the ability of storytelling to transcend time and captivate readers of all ages. With its beautifully crafted narratives and memorable characters, this collection is a true gem that deserves a prominent place on any bookshelf.

First Page:

In paying a tribute to the mingled mirth and tenderness of Eugene Field the poet of whose going the West may say, "He took our daylight with him" one of his fellow journalists has written that he was a jester, but not of the kind that Shakespeare drew in Yorick. He was not only, so the writer implied, the maker of jibes and fantastic devices, but the bard of friendship and affection, of melodious lyrical conceits; he was the laureate of children dear for his "Wynken, Blynken and Nod" and "Little Boy Blue"; the scholarly book lover, withal, who relished and paraphrased his Horace, who wrote with delight a quaint archaic English of his special devising; who collected rare books, and brought out his own "Little Books" of "Western Verse" and "Profitable Tales" in high priced limited editions, with broad margins of paper that moths and rust do not corrupt, but which tempts bibliomaniacs to break through and steal... Continue reading book >>