There sat the dog with eyes as big as mill wheels

Though criticised for their anarchic immorality when first published, Hans Christian Andersens tales made him an international star, taken to the hearts of children and adults for their beauty, sorrow and strangeness. Included here are The Steadfast Tin Soldier and Big Klaus and Little Klaus.

Introducing Little Black Classics: 80 books for Penguins 80th birthday. Little Black Classics celebrate the huge range and diversity of Penguin Classics, with books from around the world and across many centuries. They take us from a balloon ride over Victorian London to a garden of blossom in Japan, from Tierra del Fuego to 16th century California and the Russian steppe. Here are stories lyrical and savage; poems epic and intimate; essays satirical and inspirational; and ideas that have shaped the lives of millions.

Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875). Andersens Fairy Tales is available in Penguin Classics.