Celia Barker Lottridge decided it was time to expand the range of tales for the very young beyond "Little Red Riding Hood" and "Goldilocks and the Three Bears."

Drawing inspiration from sources the world over, she searched out tales that had all the magic properties of the old favorites. Through years of telling and retelling these stories to children, she has crafted a new nursery classic. Accompanied by gentle and appealing watercolors, these truly are ten small gems.

Drawn from many parts of the world, these tales that have been told over and over by Celia Lottridge are full of inviting rhythms and simple truths. Appealingly illustrated in watercolor by an award-winning artist, this spirited, often humorous, collection will be enjoyed by children and adults.