Belgian Fairy Tales

"Belgian Fairy Tales" by William Elliot Griffis is a treasury of captivating narratives that preserve Belgium's cultural identity and folklore from the late 1800s. The book weaves together stories packed with fairies, the natural world, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit, all set against a backdrop of historical events. These stories follow diverse adventures with memorable characters like Emile and his cherished horse Baldwin, in addition to supernatural tales like magical sisters turned into swans. The collection introduces readers to Belgium, showcasing its diverse people and deep heritage. We meet Emile, a young boy from the Ardennes region, who cares for his father's horses, especially a colt named Baldwin, as the story prepares for World War I where Emile must join his nation's fight. Balancing realism with fantasy, the collection shares both youthful joy and the heavy realities of war, setting the scene for the magical stories.