1904 - The Heroes or Greek Fairy Tales For My Children| Gifted as School Prize

By Charles Kingsley

Illustrated By Author

Published 1904
Macmillan and Co., Limited, London

The Heroes, or Greek Fairy Tales for My Children (1856) by Charles Kingsley offers a captivating retelling of three well-known Greek myths—those of Perseus, the Argonauts, and Theseus. Written for a young audience, the book brings ancient tales to life with warmth and imagination, weaving in moral lessons and timeless themes. Kingsley’s engaging style makes classical mythology both accessible and inspiring for children.

Hardcover. Full red calf leather binding. Gilt school crest/insignia to front board. Gilt border detail to both boards. Gilt detail and letteringto spine. Marbled edges to all sides. Matching marbling to endpapers. Illustrated. Binding tight. Clean pages. 218pp.

On front endpaper is a pastedown which notes that this was given to a student by a teacher. In 1905, when this book was dated as given to a student, Eagle House School in Sandhurst, Berkshire, was a well-established preparatory school for boys, known for its rigorous academic training and strong moral foundations. Founded in 1820, the school had already earned a reputation for preparing pupils for entrance to prestigious public schools such as Wellington College, with which it maintained close ties. Boarding was central to school life, and boys were immersed in a traditional education that emphasized discipline, character, and classical learning. Prizes and book awards were often given to commend academic excellence or personal merit, typically presented by the headmaster during formal ceremonies.

Condition: Near Fine

Size: 5” x 7 1/4”

An exquisite gift or collector’s piece—ideal for those drawn to Greek mythology, prize bindings, or school-related provenance.