Fairy tales brought to America by European immigrants underwent an amazing metamorphosis and became an important part of the country's emerging literary tradition. Though influenced by the storytelling customs of their European heritage, writers such as Washington Irving, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and L. Frank Baum created stories that reflected an independent spirit that was distinctly American. They captured the homespun charm of regional speech rhythms. This attitude gave birth to an important new art form: the American fairy tale. This book showcases selections from familiar favorites and lesser-known stories by well-known authors.