âÂÂIn retelling and adapting these birds and animal legends, an attempt has been made to retain, as far as possible, the essentials of the folk-tale, the humour and point of the original. It has been necessary in many instances to readapt to a considerable extent, but the essentials have in every case been preserved. While this collection of âÂÂWhy-Soâ Stories obviously forms but a fraction of such legends in folk-lore, it has been presented in the hope that children will find enjoyment in learning what their friends â the birds and the beasts â meant and mean to the peoples of many lands. E. G. R.â -- Preface
First published 1919 by George G. Harpar. Reprinted in the present Series 1932