One of Oscar Wilde's lesser-known works, this lushly described collection of original fairy tales will stay with you long after you finish reading. Written in 1891, these stories meditate on questions of love, sacrifice, and what constitutes morality. Reading these now, with the context of Wilde's much-talked-about sexuality, puts them in stark perspective.

A fisherman gives up his soul to be with the mermaid he loves, and his soul wanders the world, becoming evil without a human heart. A materialistic young king learns the cost of his riches. A beautiful young man is cursed with ugliness and learns to love others in the process. And a little person from the countryside comes to the splendid Spanish royal court to perform for the Infanta, only to discover the world's cruelty.