Prospero's Magic Island

Prospero's Magic Island (Young World Library) – Anne Webb / Hildegarde Bone, 1973 1st Edition, Near Fine Title: Prospero's Magic Island (A Young World Library Book) Author: Anne Webb (adapted and told by) Illustrator: Hildegarde Bone Publisher: Thomas Nelson & Sons Ltd., London (in association with Young World Productions) Publication Date: 1973 Edition: First Edition ISBN: 0723809623 / 9780723809623 Format: Hardcover, pictorial boards (no dust jacket issued or as typical for the series), 48 pages. Condition: Near Fine Bright, clean copy with sharp corners and vivid illustrations. The book appears almost unread. Minor flaws only: a small, neat contemporary name inscription on the front endpaper (easily overlooked or could be left as-is for provenance), and a tiny bump to one spine corner. Pages are clean, bright, and free of foxing, marks, or annotations. Binding tight and square. Overall a very attractive example of this scarce children’s classic. Description: A delightful and faithful adaptation of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest for young readers. Anne Webb simplifies the language and plot while preserving the magic, wonder, and key themes of the original play—exile, forgiveness, love, and the power of art and reconciliation. Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan, uses his magic on a remote enchanted island with his daughter Miranda, the airy spirit Ariel, and the monstrous Caliban. The story features a dramatic shipwreck, romantic encounters, comic subplots with Trinculo and Stephano, and a joyous resolution. Hildegarde Bone’s vibrant, expressive colour illustrations perfectly capture the island’s beauty, the storm’s fury, and the characters’ personalities—full-page and in-text plates throughout bring the tale to life with charm and detail. Bone was a talented artist associated with Young World Productions in the early 1970s; her work on this and other titles is highly regarded for its warmth and narrative strength. This edition is part of the desirable Young World Library series, which adapts great literature, plays, legends, and ballets for children with high-quality illustrations and accessible retellings. A lovely stepping stone to Shakespeare for young readers (roughly ages 7–12). Author and Illustrator: Anne Webb specialised in accessible retellings and children’s books in the 1970s, contributing multiple titles to the Young World Library (including other literary adaptations). Her work makes classic stories engaging without losing their essence. Hildegarde Bone is a British artist and illustrator known for her children’s book work in the 1970s. She produced lively, colourful illustrations for several Young World titles before continuing as a freelance artist, with work exhibited at venues including the Mall Galleries in London. Her style is engaging and full of character—ideal for bringing Shakespeare’s magic to a younger audience. Why Collect This? Scarce in commerce, especially in such bright condition. Ideal for collectors of illustrated Shakespeare, 1970s children’s literature, or the Young World Library series. A charming gift or addition to a children’s classics shelf.…