C. S. Lewis considered George MacDonald to be one of the best writers of his time.  He once said, “I have never concealed the fact that I regarded him as my master; indeed I fancy I have never written a book in which I did not quote from him.” If the great C. S. Lewis held George MacDonald in such high esteem, we could hardly do better than to check him out ourselves.  I have greatly enjoyed MacDonald’s books, even before I was aware that C. S. Lewis also delighted in them.

I think that MacDonald must have one of the most fecund imaginations I have ever seen.  He also writes some of the best “modern” fairy tales, and I admit, I love fairy tales.  “The Wise Woman and Other Stories” are all short fairy tales, only “The Wise Woman” even has chapters.

All of these stories are fairy tales.  however, they all have a deeper meaning, if you can find it.  The stories contained in “The Wise Woman and other Stories” all have different meanings.  They deal with love and hatred, overcoming bad habits, controlling your temper, kindness even to those who are ugly, obedience and disobedience and much, much more.

What child does not love fairy tales?   Who hasn’t at one point wanted to believe in magic and fairy godmothers?  Who does not enjoy being whisked away into a world of make-believe?  Whose eyes do not twinkle at the thought of beautiful Princesses and heroic Princes?  George MacDonald is a master of fairy tales.   They are written for everyone, children included.  While some of the material might be a little over the head of a very young child and the style possibly slightly difficult as well, a young child will certainly enjoy the stories.  An older child will see the underlying lessons, and it makes for very interesting and deep conversations.  Plus, what’s wrong with a little old fashioned fun in the land of the fairy tales?