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Think Before You Speak or, The Three Wishes   By: (1711-1780)

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Think Before You Speak or, The Three Wishes by Madame (Jeanne-Marie) Leprince de Beaumont is a charming and thought-provoking tale that not only captivates young readers but also imparts valuable lessons about the importance of making wise choices.

The story follows the life of a kind and hardworking woodcutter named William. One day, while toiling in the forest, William stumbles upon a magical ring that grants him three wishes. Excited by this newfound power, he becomes consumed by his desires and makes hasty and frivolous choices, without carefully considering the consequences.

Through a series of unexpected events, William quickly realizes that his actions have far-reaching effects on not only his own life but also the lives of others. These consequences serve as powerful lessons, teaching him the importance of thinking before speaking and the perils of impulsive decisions.

What sets this book apart is the author's skill in seamlessly blending entertainment with valuable moral lessons. De Beaumont masterfully weaves together a tale that keeps readers engaged while subtly instilling in them the importance of prudence, reflection, and humility.

The characters in Think Before You Speak are well-developed and relatable. William, in particular, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the story. As readers witness his growth, they cannot help but reflect on their own decision-making processes and how they might apply these lessons in their lives.

Additionally, the book's simple yet elegant language makes it accessible to a wide range of readers. De Beaumont's prose is both descriptive and engaging, keeping the narrative moving at a brisk pace. The dialogue is authentic and adds depth to the characters, making them come alive on the pages.

While the book primarily targets younger readers, it can certainly resonate with readers of all ages. The timeless themes of self-reflection, responsibility, and mindfulness are universal and can be appreciated by adults as well.

In conclusion, Think Before You Speak or, The Three Wishes is a delightful and enlightening read. Madame Leprince de Beaumont has crafted a timeless tale that not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons. Through its relatable characters and engaging narrative, this book serves as a gentle reminder to young and old alike about the importance of thinking before we speak or act.

First Page:

[Illustration: FRONTISPIECE]

THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK:

OR, THE THREE WISHES.

A TALE.

BY THE AUTHOR OF THE PEACOCK AT HOME.

THIRD EDITION.

LONDON: PRINTED FOR M. J. GODWIN, AT THE JUVENILE LIBRARY, NO. 41, SKINNER STREET; AND TO BE HAD OF ALL BOOKSELLERS.

1810.

London: Printed by B. McMillan, } Bow Street, Covent Garden. }

PREFACE.

The following Tale is principally taken from the admirable Work of Madame de Beaumont ( Le Magazin des Enfans ), which formed almost the whole library and the delight of the children of the last generation, and has hardly been surpassed by the many excellent productions which supply the nurseries and school rooms of the present.

The story is there told with the simplicity and sprightliness of which the French language is so peculiarly capable, but which a literal translation would render not only insipid but vulgar.

In a poetical dress it may possibly give to the young reader a part of that amusement, which it once afforded the infancy of the author.

THE THREE WISHES.

The sun withdrew his last pale ray, And clos'd the short and chearless day; Loud blew the wind, and rain and sleet Against the cottage casement beat.

The busy housewife trimm'd her fire, And drew the oaken settle nigher, And welcom'd home her own good man To his clean hearth, his pipe, and can; For Homespun and his bustling wife Were honest folks in humble life, Who liv'd contented with their lot, And lov'd the comforts of their cot... Continue reading book >>




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