One of the wonderful things about being a child is enjoying a lively imagination. One can be transported into a different time-frame or to interesting, exciting places - real or imaginary. Especially appealing to those in this category are the classic tales of old, which have withstood the test of time and which overlap many generations. Fortunate also are those no-longer-children who still have a sense of wonder and excitement generated by the same things that stirred their imagination and delighted them when they were young. These emotions vary greatly in their complexity and understanding, but the same delightful effect remains. So, to all children everywhere - regardless of age - I dedicate these verses in the hope that a poetic version of the old familiar tales will encourage or renew a sense of discovery and deep satisfaction.