Old Wonder-Eyes, and Other Stories for Children

"Old Wonder-Eyes, and Other Stories for Children" by L. K. (Leander K.) Lippincott is a collection of enchanting children's stories from the mid-1800s that weave together themes of affection, bereavement, and camaraderie through characters like Minnie, a kind girl, and her peculiar owl, Wonder-Eyes. The stories are crafted to ignite the imaginations of young readers while imparting important moral lessons through touching stories and lovely illustrations. Setting the stage is a narrator's visit to the English countryside, where they stumble upon Wonder-Eyes, a curmudgeonly owl who was once cherished by Minnie. Learning about Minnie, the narrator uncovers a narrative of her tender heart and her ability to befriend the disagreeable owl despite his aversion to others. As Minnie's health deteriorates, she worries about what will become of Wonder-Eyes, underscoring the strong link between people and animals, and the power of love and sorrow.