From the foreword: It is a rare talent to be able to combine imagination, simplicity, the good and the true, in fast-moving and gripping stories. It is precisely this judicious combination that makes Christopher Cardew's stories both interesting and moving. Each story makes charming and skilful use of animals, and presents their part in the drama in a beautiful, childlike manner. THE BLIND BOY and THE LOST VOYAGE convey excitement, shock, delight, suspense and the pure beauty of spiritual peace and joy. THE DONKEY'S SECRET has a special quality of charm which is heightened considerably by the great curiosity one senses in the unfolding of the story. Although there is a simple beauty in these stories, there is also a deep and profound spiritual message. In fact, at least two stories might be classified as allegorical: THE BLIND BOY and THE DONKEY'S SECRET. THE LOST VOYAGE has snatches of allegory. All of these allegories centre around the Redeeming Christ. These stories are uplifting to a degree seldom found in current literature, and unconsciously the reader will find himself elevated and refreshed with a contact with goodness.