The Water of the Wonderous Isles

William Morris' fantasy novel "The Water of the Wondrous Isles" (1897) explores the politics of his time through the lens of the imagination. The story follows a young girl named Birdalone who is raised by a wicked witch in the forest of Evilshaw. With the help of the fairy Habundia, she steals a magic boat and makes her way from one wondrous isle to the next, risking everything to return to her home and family. This edition of the novel features a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 396 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Graphic Arts Books

The Water of the Wondrous Isles, a fantasy novel by William Morris, delves into the realm of imagination and explores the politics of the Victorian era. Despite his renowned status as a designer, Morris is also recognized as a dedicated socialist and talented novelist. His artistic creations seamlessly blend fantasy and utopian science fiction, offering a profound and underappreciated contribution to English cultural development.

In the tranquil town of Utterhay, a wicked witch named Evilshaw arrives, seeking to exploit the innocence of a young girl named Birdalone. The witch, who rarely uses her real name, befriends the girl's mother and offers her money to purchase supper. However, as the mother leaves, the witch seizes the opportunity and abducts Birdalone, taking her to the forest of Evilshaw. There, Birdalone is raised as a servant, enduring a life of hardship and oppression.

Driven by a newfound sense of independence, Birdalone steals a magic boat and sets out on a perilous journey. With the guidance of the fairy Habundia, she navigates through the wondrous isles, facing countless challenges and risking everything to return to her home and family.

This edition of William Morris' The Water of the Wondrous Isles is a testament to the enduring power of classic literature. With a beautifully designed cover and meticulously typeset manuscript, it presents a reimagined version of this timeless masterpiece for modern readers. The novel's rich narrative, intricate characters, and exploration of themes of love, freedom, and the triumph of the human spirit make it a captivating and relevant read for audiences of all ages.

Through his visionary writing, William Morris not only entertained but also challenged his readers to contemplate the social and political issues of his time. The Water of the Wondrous Isles serves as a reminder of the importance of imagination, resilience, and the pursuit of a better world. As we navigate our own complex and ever-changing world, Morris' work continues to inspire and provoke us to think critically and explore new horizons.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513217703