In 'Adventures Among Books', Andrew Lang embarks on a literary journey, presenting a series of essays that are as varied as they are enlightening. Through the veins of literary criticism, autobiography, and reflective prose, Lang weaves a tapestry rich with historical context and his unique stylistic elegance. His work serves not merely as passive commentary but as an animated conversation with the texts and figures of bygone eras, making the classic writings of the past accessible and vibrant to the contemporary reader. Engaging with both the content and the form of these timeless works, Lang champions the enduring value of literature amidst the changing tides of cultural fashion.Andrew Lang, a polymath of the Victorian era, was not only a prodigious author but also a respected critic, historian, and anthropologist. His comprehensive knowledge and deep appreciation of literature echo through the pages of this compilation. A life steeped in the humanities undoubtedly shaped Lang's perspectives, as reflected in his erudite yet approachable commentary. His prolific output and varied interests render his insights into the literary world both authoritative and uniquely personal.'Recommend this book to avid readers who thirst for a confluence of literary analysis, history, and personal reflection. Its audience spans scholars seeking to contextualize their readings within a broader canon to casual readers looking for an enriching and insightful engagement with literature. Lang's 'Adventures Among Books' extends an invitation to all who partake in the love of the written word, bridging the gap between academia and the realm of leisurely reading.

Andrew Lang (1844-1912) was a Scottish writer, poet, and literary critic, renowned for his prolific work in various domains including folklore, anthropology, and classical scholarship. His erudition and narrative craft are prominently displayed in 'Adventures Among Books' (1905), a collection of essays that delve into his experiences and reflections on literature. Lang's fascination with fairy tales and myths underpinned his editorial and translating endeavors, leading to the acclaimed 'Fairy Books' series a colorful array of fairy tale compilations named after the hues of their covers, starting with 'The Blue Fairy Book' (1889). His literary style combined the rigour of a scholar with the accessibility of a storyteller, marrying his academic interests with a passion for the fantastical and the romantic. As a critic, Lang's incisive analyses of historical texts and his contemporaries showcased his extensive knowledge and his belief in the power of literature to transcend time and culture. Often leveraging his wry sense of humor, Lang's works appealed to both the young and the learned, and his legacy persists in the ongoing study of folklore and the enduring popularity of his collections.