Wonder Book for Girls and Boys (1892) Illustrated by Walter Crane

A Wonder Book for Girls and Boys by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a retelling of six classic Greek myths, first published in 1851 and reissued in many beautifully illustrated editions. The 1892 edition, published by Houghton, Osgood, McIlvaine & Co., London featuring illustrations by Walter Crane, is one of the most visually distinguished. This version transforms Hawthorne’s graceful, imaginative prose into a rich visual experience, elevating the storytelling to new artistic heights.

The tales in the book include favorites such as The Gorgon’s Head (Perseus and Medusa), The Golden Touch (King Midas), The Miraculous Pitcher, and The Chimera, all presented through the framing device of a college student named Eustace Bright who tells these stories to a group of children at Tanglewood. Hawthorne’s approach is gentle, humorous, and filled with moral insight, making ancient mythology accessible and engaging for young readers while retaining literary sophistication.

Walter Crane, the illustrator of this edition, was one of the most influential figures in Victorian book illustration. Known for his stylized designs and involvement in the Arts and Crafts Movement, Crane brought a decorative elegance and classical sensibility to his work. His illustrations in A Wonder Book include full-page plates, elaborate borders, and ornamental initials, all reflecting his mastery of line and composition. The classical themes of Hawthorne’s stories find a perfect match in Crane’s neoclassical aesthetic, with illustrations that blend narrative clarity and symbolic richness.

About the Illustrator Walter Crane (1845-1915):
Walter Crane (1845–1915) was a British illustrator, painter, and designer whose work helped define the visual culture of the late 19th century. Deeply associated with the Arts and Crafts Movement and a close associate of William Morris, Crane believed in the unity of art and design. His illustrations often featured mythological or historical subjects, with strong lines, harmonious composition, and richly patterned detail. His work in A Wonder Book exemplifies his ability to blend narrative art with decorative design, making this edition both a literary and artistic treasure.

For collectors:

• The Faerie Queene (1897), illustrated by Walter Crane – A richly decorated epic poem with elaborate borders and classical imagery.
• Grimm’s Household Stories (1882), illustrated by Walter Crane – A collection of fairy tales featuring bold illustrations and ornamental designs.
• Stories from the Greek Tragedians (1907), illustrated by W. Russell Flint – A beautifully illustrated companion to Greek myths with a more dramatic tone.

Other books illustrated by Walter Crane available in our gallery: Wonderbook for Boys and Girls, Flora Feast: A Masque of Flowers, Queen Summer.

Art Gallery: Walter Crane – Wonderbook for Girls & Boys 1892