Touted by the authors as the “first full length critical biography of Perrault in English,” this biography of Perrault details his life and literary works. Quotes from his writings and his memoirs, as well as summaries of his fairy tales, appear throughout the text. Two chapters are dedicated to his fairy tales alone. The chronology at the beginning of the book is a wonderful synopsis of Perrault’s life and is especially helpful for “at-a-glance” information.

This illuminating biography of Andersen’s life is divided into two parts: Part One is the biography proper and Part Two is dedicated to his tales. Each section within Part One covers spans of years in Andersen’s life, and quotes from Andersen’s diaries, autobiographies, correspondence, and so on are strewn throughout the text. Pictures are also included. This book gives superb insight into this high-spirited author’s life.

Provided in this brief entry is information about the noted fairy-tale scholar and critic’s personal life, career, and writings. Also included is a quote by Zipes himself as to the importance of studying popular culture as related to children. This entry is beneficial for looking up more information—particularly regarding writings—about the man whose name is so closely associated with fairy tales.

As a whole, this biography of both the Grimms’ lives is a wonderfully descriptive account of the Brothers. It goes beyond the fairy tales (although an entire chapter is dedicated to them) to include the Brothers’ childhood, their involvement in politics, and more. Each section addresses a span of years in the Brothers’ lives, and quotes from the Brothers’ autobiographies, correspondence, and so on are dispersed throughout the text. Corresponding pictures also appear to enhance the text. This book is a first-rate aid for viewing the Brothers Grimm as more than merely transcribers of fairy tales.