The Paradise of Children (From: "A Wonder-Book for Girls and Boys")

"The Paradise of Children" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a charming piece of children's literature written in the mid-19th century. This story presents a fantastical account of childhood in a mythical world where children live without the troubles of adult life, engaging in pure play and laughter. The narrative centers on two characters, Epimetheus and Pandora, and explores themes of curiosity, innocence, and the inevitable introduction of troubles into the once carefree lives of children. In the story, the children live in a delightful realm with no responsibilities, where everything they wish for grows on trees. However, their curiosity leads Pandora to open a mysterious box that unleashes a swarm of troubles into the world. As the chaos ensues, the children face their first experiences of pain and sorrow. Yet, from the box also emerges Hope, a comforting spirit that assures them that even amidst trials, hope will always be their companion. This tale serves as a fable about innocence lost and the acknowledgment that life’s challenges are inextricable from existence, yet hope remains a vital and uplifting force. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Nathaniel Hawthorne was an American novelist and short story writer. His works often focus on history, morality, and religion.