The Maker of Rainbows, and Other Fairy-tales and Fables

"The Maker of Rainbows, and Other Fairy-tales and Fables" by Richard Le Gallienne is a compilation of enchanting stories crafted around the turn of the 20th century that center on hope, change, and seeing the magic within everyday life. Featuring a knife-grinder who can conjure rainbows and a poet grappling with life, the narratives show the connection of dreams and what is real. The collection starts in a sad village named Twelve-trees, that is always dealing with sorrow. When a mysterious old wanderer arrives with a special wheel able to turn tears into vibrant rainbows, the hearts of the village children are reawakened with joy, revealing beautiful lives hidden from view. The villagers believe in hope once again, starting them on a journey for a symbolic “pot of gold” found at the rainbow's end, which sets the scene to explore profound themes centered around seeing things for what they truly are, having hope, and the amazing power of imagination across the stories.