Most Popular Books by Walter de la Mare

Contains poems that have appeared together by themselves for the first time.

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Walter De la Mare''s ''Peacock Pie, a Book of Rhymes'' stands as a delightful trove of children''s verse, characterized by its whimsical charm and musicality. Within its pages, readers find a myriad of rhymes that resonate with the innocence and wonder of childhood. De la Mare employs a simple yet profound literary style, weaving together rhythm, alliteration, and assonance to create an enchanting world that lingers in the mind long after the book is closed. His work resides in an esteemed literary context, contributing a unique voice alongside other renowned children''s poets of the 20th century, and continues to be cherished for the lyrical quality of his verse which invites both young and old to relish in the playful spirit of his poetry. An inheritor of the romantic tradition, Walter De la Mare approached poetry with a fascination for the surreal and mystical. His acclaimed literary career, crowned by prestigious accolades such as the Carnegie Medal and the James Tait Black Memorial Prize, was to a large extent an exploration of the unseen and the ethereal. It is this sense of wonder and his intuitive grasp of a child''s inner world that likely led De la Mare to pen ''Peacock Pie.'' By integrating his fantastical style with a childlike curiosity, he crafted poems that could capture the imaginations of children across generations. ''Peacock Pie'' comes highly recommended for young readers and adults alike who delight in poetic artistry and the magic of language. It serves not only as a gateway to appreciating the beauty of verse but also as a medium to revisit the magical vistas of childhood. De la Mare''s rhymes offer a refuge from the ordinary, a space where the music of words reigns supreme. Thus, ''Peacock Pie'' is not just a book of rhymes; it is an invitation to dance with the muses of poetry and memory—a literary feast that keeps giving with each read.

A collection of major Bible stories of the Old Testament, delightfully re-told in modern English, from the Garden of Eden to David and Goliath! Although geared towards the young, this book is a delight for all ages...

An anthology of poems for children.

In "The Listeners and Other Poems," Walter De la Mare crafts a collection that transcends mere verse, blending ethereal themes with vivid imagery and haunting tones. The poems range from explorations of the supernatural to contemplations on solitude and nature, all marked by De la Mare''s signature musicality and meticulous attention to language. His mastery of rhythm and sound, paired with a quintessentially British sensibility, evokes feelings of nostalgia and wonder, situating his work in the rich tradition of early 20th-century poetry that grapples with the metaphysical and the ambiguous. Walter De la Mare (1873-1956) was an English poet, novelist, and short story writer whose work often reflects his fascination with the uncanny and the mystical aspects of life. Growing up in a literary family and surrounded by the artistic influences of his time, De la Mare''s writing is imbued with an innate curiosity about the human experience and the worlds beyond. His own experiences, along with his deep engagement with folklore, children''s literature, and the everyday, shaped a unique voice that resonates through this collection. "The Listeners and Other Poems" is essential reading for anyone interested in the interplay of dream and reality. De la Mare''s evocative language and richly imaginative landscapes invite readers into realms of enchantment and introspection, making this collection a must-have for both poetry enthusiasts and those new to his work. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works'' unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions. - A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader era—social currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation. - A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists. - A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different work''s strengths. - Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the author''s overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts. - Lastly, our hand‐picked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collection''s central themes.

In "Songs of Childhood," Walter De la Mare crafts a lyrical and evocative collection that captures the essence of childhood innocence through a series of enchanting poems. The work is characterized by its whimsical imagery, musicality, and a deep sense of nostalgia for the uncomplicated joys of youth. De la Mare employs a vivid palette of language, which not only conveys the joys and sorrows of childhood but also reflects the broader modernist movement of the early 20th century, where language and form were explored in innovative ways. The enchanting cadence of the poems makes them accessible to both children and adults, allowing them to resonate deeply with readers of various ages. Walter De la Mare (1873-1956) was an English author and poet who dedicated much of his literary career to exploring themes of memory, fantasy, and the innocence of childhood. His own experiences growing up in a Victorian society, combined with his interest in folklore and the supernatural, informed his writing style. De la Mare''s background in literature, along with his fascination with children''s emotions and experiences, provided a rich foundation for the creation of "Songs of Childhood," revealing the delicate interplay between reality and imagination. This poignant collection is an essential read for those seeking to reconnect with the wonder and simplicity of early life. Educators, parents, and poetry enthusiasts alike will find value in its timeless themes and exquisite verse, making "Songs of Childhood" a highly recommended addition to any literary repertoire.

Walter John de la Mare, OM CH (1873-1956), was an English poet, short story writer, and novelist, probably best remembered for his works for children and "The Listeners" (1912), and for a highly acclaimed selection of subtle psychological horror stories, amongst them "Seaton''s Aunt" and "All Hallows". In 1921, his novel Memoirs of a Midget won the James Tait Black Memorial Prize for fiction, and his post-war Collected Stories for Children won the 1947 Carnegie Medal for British children''s books. His first book, Songs of Childhood (1902), was published under the name Walter Ramal. He worked in the statistics department of the London office of Standard Oil for eighteen years while struggling to bring up a family, but nevertheless found enough time to write.

In The Three Royal Monkeys, Walter de la Mare weaves a magical and deeply poetic fable that captures the innocence, wonder, and mystery of the imagination. First published in 1910, this enchanting tale follows three young monkeys — the children of the exiled royal family of their kind — on a perilous quest to reclaim their lost kingdom. Along their journey through lush forests, hidden valleys, and the haunting landscapes of de la Mare''s imagination, they encounter strange creatures, wise hermits, and the eternal struggle between light and shadow. Though written for younger readers, the novel resonates with the dreamlike lyricism and philosophical depth that made de la Mare one of the great stylists of English literature. Beneath its whimsical surface lies a meditation on courage, loyalty, and the mysterious workings of fate. His delicate prose and vivid imagery transform the animals'' adventure into a symbolic odyssey — a reflection on the endurance of hope and the search for one''s rightful place in the world. The Three Royal Monkeys stands as one of de la Mare''s earliest and most imaginative works, foreshadowing the poetic vision that would later define Peacock Pie and Memoirs of a Midget. At once fairy tale, allegory, and adventure story, it remains a timeless treasure of children''s literature — one that speaks as powerfully to adults as to the young, reminding readers that even in exile, the spirit of royalty endures.