18 NOVEMBER 1911, Page 11

Perrault's Fairy Tales. Newly translated by S. R. Littlewood. (Herbert

and Daniel. 5s. net.)—We are altogether in agreement with Mr. Littlewood when he bids us enjoy the stories which Perrault either wrote or touched up without speculating whether Little Red Riding Hood is the crimson sunset, soon to be swallowed by the black wolf of night. And he helps us to do it by giving us this charming version of " The Sleeping Beauty," " Blue Beard," " Puss in Boots," and the rest of the familiar stories, along with some particularly delightful illustrations, the work, we see from the title-page, of Honor C. Appleton.—The Tale of a Tail, by E. F. Mason (G. Routledge and Son, ls.), also has some pleasing pictures, but we cannot say that the verses are equally attractive.—Stuart and Son, by May Milliner (Bickers and Sons, ls.), gives some good comic pictures and indifferent verse. Here is a specimen :- " And the Lord Mayor of whose great importance he knew Presented him with the freedom of the Zoo."

Even comic verse ought to scan somehow.—Queerie at the Pole, created and illustrated by J. R. Sinclair. Verses by John Lea. (Andrew Melrose, 2s. 6d.)—Mr. Sinclair's pictures are humorous in a very grotesque way, and Mr. Lea's verses at least run smoothly.—Cats at School, by Louis Wain. Verses by P. G. Wodehouse, M.A. (G. Routledge and Son. ls.) Mr. Wain's name is sufficient to recommend the pictures. He is, indeed, equal to himself, and the verses, which could not have been easy to write, are as good as circumstances permit.