The Water-Babies: A Fairy Tale for a Land-Baby (1909) by Charles Kingsley. Illustrated by Warwick Goble

This 1909 edition of The Water-Babies, published by Macmillan and Co., London is a treasured classic of children’s literature, richly brought to life by the delicate watercolor illustrations of Warwick Goble. First published in 1863, Charles Kingsley’s moral and fantastical tale follows Tom, a young chimney sweep who embarks on a spiritual and magical transformation into a “water-baby” after falling into a stream. The story weaves Victorian social commentary, Christian allegory, and whimsical fantasy into a richly imaginative narrative.

The 1909 Macmillan edition, featuring Goble’s 32 tipped-in color plates, is especially prized by collectors for its exquisite presentation and artistic value during the Golden Age of Illustration.

Warwick Goble (1862-1943)
Warwick Goble (1862–1943) was a British illustrator best known for his exquisite watercolor illustrations in children’s books and fairy tales. Educated at the City of London School and the Westminster School of Art, Goble gained prominence in the early 20th century for his work in The Fairy Book, The Water Babies, and Green Willow and Other Japanese Fairy Tales. He had a distinctive style influenced by Japanese art and folklore, capturing fantastical and exotic themes with delicate detail. Goble contributed to many illustrated editions during the Golden Age of Illustration, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of book illustration.

His illustrations for The Water-Babies are among his most beloved, capturing the mystical underwater realms, curious sea creatures, and allegorical figures in a style that blends wonder with a tranquil melancholy.

For collectors:

• The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald – A timeless fantasy tale featuring a brave princess, magical creatures, and deep moral themes, often accompanied by classic illustrations in various editions.
• Grimm’s Fairy Tales illustrated by Arthur Rackham – A collection of dark, magical stories from the Brothers Grimm, brought to life by Arthur Rackham’s hauntingly detailed and atmospheric illustrations.
• East of the Sun and West of the Moon illustrated by Kay Nielsen – A Norwegian fairy tale collection, this edition is renowned for Kay Nielsen’s lavish, Art Nouveau-inspired artwork and dreamlike storytelling.

For a list of illustrations by Warwick Goble available on our site. Please visit our Warwick Goble Illustrated Books Art Gallery.

Art Gallery: Warwick Goble – The Water Babies 1909