
The Song of Sixpence
by Walter Crane
- Reading level
- Plain English
- Price
- Free
About the book
"The Song of Sixpence" by Walter Crane is a children's picture book written in the early 20th century. The book features a collection of nursery rhymes and tales, including the famous poem "Sing a Song of Sixpence," the enchanting story of "Princess Belle-Etoile," and an appealing "Alphabet of Old Friends." It is likely aimed at young readers, combining delightful illustrations with engaging stories and rhymes to captivate a child's imagination. In "Sing a Song of Sixpence," the narrative revolves around a king, a queen, and the mystery of a pie filled with singing blackbirds, showcasing playful whimsy. The tale of "Princess Belle-Etoile" introduces readers to three princesses, their adventures, and the challenges of jealousy and loyalty among them, leading to a quest to uncover their origins. The "Alphabet of Old Friends" presents familiar nursery characters in a fun and entertaining format. Together, these stories are woven with moral lessons and vibrant imagery, making it an engaging read for young children and a delightful way to introduce them to classic literature.
- Fairy tales
- Nursery rhymes
- Picture books for children
Updated September 2026. Public domain in the USA. Text and summary from Project Gutenberg eBook #18344.
More free books by Walter Crane
About Walter CraneLine and Form (1900)
The Baby's Own Aesop
The Bases of Design
William Morris to Whistler
The Baby's Opera
Of the Decorative Illustration of Books Old and New
The Baby's Bouquet
Ideals in Art
The Frog Prince and Other Stories
India Impressions, With some notes of Ceylon during a winter tour, 1906-7.
A Flower Wedding
Walter Crane's Painting Book











