Fairy tales from far and near

by Katharine Pyle

"Fairy Tales from Far and Near" by Katharine Pyle is a collection of fairy tales written in the early 20th century. This enchanting anthology includes stories from diverse cultural origins, such as Hindu, Lithuanian, and Irish tales, designed to captivate readers with themes of magic, adventure, and morality. Each tale features unique characters and fantastical elements, inviting readers to explore richly woven worlds filled with wonder. The opening portion of the book begins with the tale of "Little Surya Bai," where a poor peasant woman loses her infant daughter to two eagles that abduct her. The eagles take the child to live with them in a secure treehouse, tending to her every need and affectionately naming her Surya Bai. The story follows Surya Bai's adventures as she navigates her new life, encounters challenges, and eventually finds herself in peril when she ventures into the dangerous Rakshas' country seeking fire. The unfolding narrative establishes a whimsical yet suspenseful atmosphere while introducing magical creatures, familial love, and the resilience of the young protagonist.