J K Rowling has written five fairy tales with wit and imagination.  Each tale reveals a lesson: that strength can be gained through trusted friendship; that redemption is gained through the power of love ("Wizard of the Hopping Pot"); that true magic exists in the heart of all of us ("Fountain of Fair Fortune").

Added to the tales is Professor Dumbledore, whose wizard perspective allows today's reader to place the tales in the context of the 16th century Muggle society.  He also includes tid-bits on the history of magic wands and comments on the Dark Arts and its practitioners.  These tales give lessons that belong to parents and children.

The stories are accompanied by pen and ink illustrations by Rowling.

The Tales of Beedle the Bard is a wise and delightful addition to the Harry Potter series.

Highly recommended...not to be missed.