Review: Penguin Little Black Classics + Giveaway

Some of you may remember that I posted a press release recently about Penguin Little Black Classics, these awesome little pocket sized books that are 64 pages each, and just $1.99 each. Penguin Books Australia was kind enough to send me a few of these books to review, and a few more to give away. Anyway, I've had a great time reading a few of these titles--it has proved to be a great way to reconnect with some favourite classics and to wet my appetite for the authors that I knew little about. 


The Wife of Bath by Geoffrey Chaucer
Penguin Little Black Classics No. 28

The first classic I dipped in to was The Wife of Bath by Geoffrey Chaucer, which, of course, is part of the Canterbury Tales. I remember studying some of the Canterbury Tales as a young adult, and being a little intrigued by these occasionally sordid tales. The Wife of Bath, or The Wife of Bath's Tale is a tale of sex, attraction and monogamy, while also examining the role of women during medieval times. Or, to be more specific about it, the role of women within a marriage. The introduction is longer than the tale itself, though the story is entertaining enough.

Sindbad the Sailor
Penguin Little Black Classics No. 54

Easily my favourite of the little black classics that I have read so far, Sindbad the Sailor was taken from One Thousand and One Nights (often known as Arabian Nights,) and tells the surprising adventures that Sindbad the Sailor had whilst on his travels--from meeting giants, to accumulating riches, to being buried alive with his dead wife. Although his travels are unpredictable and fraught with danger, Sindbad seems to make it out okay. I enjoyed this one so much that I ended up buying a copy of One Thousand and One Nights.  

On the Beach Alone At Night
Penguin Little Black Classics No.10

A lovely collection of verse from American poet Walt Whitman.

Giveaway! 

I have a number of Penguin Little Black Classics to give away to one lucky reader. To enter, comment below and tell me the name of your favourite classic. Competition closes Sunday June 21. Competition is open to residents of Australia only. (Sorry.) 

Winners chosen by randomresult.com


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