If you only know Oscar Wilde from his witty plays, this collection of fairy tales will be a beautiful surprise. It’s not all happy endings, but it’s full of profound heart.

The Story

The title story follows the gilded statue of the Happy Prince. From his tall column, he sees the poverty and pain in the city he once ruled. A kind swallow, delaying his trip to Egypt, becomes his messenger. The Prince asks the bird to pluck off his gold covering and precious jewels to give to the needy. As winter comes, the swallow stays to help, and the Prince is stripped bare. The other tales are just as memorable, from a selfish giant who learns to love to a nightingale who sacrifices everything for true love.

Why You Should Read It

These aren't simple moral lessons. Wilde wraps deep, sometimes painful truths in deceptively simple stories. The beauty and the tragedy sit side-by-side. You'll find yourself thinking about sacrifice, vanity, love, and what society truly values. The relationship between the Prince and the swallow is one of the most tender and tragic friendships in literature. It’s a book that feels ancient and timeless all at once.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who believes stories can change how you see the world. It’s a short, stunning read for a quiet afternoon. If you love the feeling of a story lingering in your mind long after you close the book, this collection is for you. Keep some tissues handy for the last few pages of 'The Happy Prince.'