Songs with Music (1920) is a charming collection of Robert Louis Stevenson‘s beloved poetry from A Child’s Garden of Verses, set to music and illustrated by the renowned artist Margaret Tarrant. This edition transforms Stevenson’s whimsical, nostalgic verses—celebrating childhood imagination, bedtime stories, and outdoor adventures—into lyrical songs, adding a melodic dimension to his timeless words. Tarrant’s delicate watercolor illustrations, brimming with fairies, enchanted gardens, and dreamlike landscapes, infuse the pages with a sense of magic and innocence. Her ethereal style, reminiscent of the Golden Age of Illustration, pairs perfectly with Stevenson’s tender reflections on youth.
Published in the early 20th century, this edition bridges literature and music, offering a unique way to experience Stevenson’s work. Tarrant’s art, often compared to Cicely Mary Barker’s Flower Fairies, enhances the book’s appeal as a treasure for both children and collectors of vintage illustrated books.
For Fans of This Edition, Try:
- A Child’s Garden of Verses (other illustrated editions by Jessie Willcox Smith or Gyo Fujikawa) – For alternate artistic interpretations.
- The Fairy Tales of Hans Christian Andersen (illus. Arthur Rackham) – Another classic with lush, imaginative art.
- When We Were Very Young by A.A. Milne – Playful poetry with Ernest Shepard’s iconic drawings.
A delightful fusion of poetry, music, and art—perfect for lovers of nostalgia and childhood wonder.
