Windows of Gold and Other Golden Tales

In this fanciful anthology of tales from around the world, a character in each story believes that gold will change his life. It does, but not always with the expected results. A boy who hopes to discover a golden house finds instead a lifelong friend; nine fools give up their gold to solve a problem that never existed. A clever cat brings a young man riches, while a selfish milkmaid only dreams of wealth. In two separate tales a king and a foolish rabbit both learn that greed leads to catastrophe. Finally, a prince discovers that obedience can yield good fortune. Lanes cleverly illuminates the infinite power--and treachery--of gold in these concisely written adventuresome stories. Root's lively watercolors (appropriately gold-framed) add just the right fairy-tale touches to this collection. Ages 6-10. (Sept.)