Once upon a time a writer decided to set down the most memorable and magical tales she could find. She searched the country high and low, seeking out folktales and legends, ancient lore and modern cautionary tales. Her name was Katharine M. Briggs, and she went on to become the most important folklorist these islands have ever produced. In 1970 she published in four volumes the vast and authoritative Dictionary of British Folktales and Legends to wide acclaim. This sampler comprises the very best of those tales and legends. Gathered within you will find an extravagance of beautiful princesses and stout stable boys, sour-faced witches and kings with hearts of gold. Each tale is a masterpiece of storytelling, from the hilarious Three Sillies to the delightfully macabre Sammle's Ghost.