Despite being a huge fan of Harry Potter, I never really have any intention to read these short stories by J.K. Rowling. However, its physical attractiveness - from a vibrant cover art to the smooth pages - totally drew me in and I am so glad that I actually give this book a try cause it sure didn’t disappoint.The Tales of Beedle the Bard is a compilation of short bedtime stories specifically tailored for the young wizards and witches. In the introduction section written by J.K.Rowling, she explained that these stories, which were collected from Beedle the Bard from the fifteenth century, contain hidden messages that are meant to teach the young about righteousness through fables. Some of them are fantastic whilst the others are somewhat horrifying. The tales included are: (1) The Wizard and the Hopping Pot, (2) The Fountain of Fair Fortune, (3) The Warlock’s Hairy Heart, (4) Babbitty Rabbitty and her Cackling Stump and (5) The Tale of the Three Brothers. Among these five stories, the second, the third and the fifth ones are by far my favourites!The feature of the book that I enjoyed most was the commentary made by the late Headmaster of Hogwarts, Professor Albus Dumbledore. His thoughtful insight on key principles of each stories provide us, the Muggles, with some useful information as well as the final glance to the magical world. The book was surprisingly delightful till I wish that it didn’t end only 104 pages. This surely was one of those quick, food-for-thought reads that suitable for just about anyone at any age.
