Charming. The illustrations are lovely, but unfortunately might date it. It really isn't that old-fashioned. Lively tall-tales as told by a 79 yo former sailor to an 8 yo boy. ( )

Part folk-tale, part fairy-tale, part children's adventure, Farjeon evokes the mystical quality of old sailor telling the young boy that tales of his adventures. Derry eagerly seeks out the old Jim, and begs for his tales - tales full of rainbow-hued sea serpents, green Kittyfish, and intelligent penguins. First published in 1934, the story has a quaint, vintage feel. Younger kids will enjoy the tall tales, while adults will enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the prose. Worth reading. ( )