The legendary enchantment of Rip Van Winkle in the Kaatskill Mountains; the gruesome end of Ichabod Crane, who met the headless horseman of Sleepy Hollow; the spectre bridegroom who turned out to be happily substantial; the pride of an English village and the come-uppance of the over-zealous Mountjoy - these witty, perceptive and captivating tales range from fantasy to romance.
Washington Irving (1783-1859) was born in New York City, the youngest of 11 children. He became an author, essayist, poet, travel writer, biographer, and columnist and is renowned as the father of the American short story. He is best known for 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,' and 'Rip Van Winkle,' both of which appear in this collection. One of his greatest biographies includes The Life of George Washington (1855-59).
