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This delightful text comprises the delightful children's novel written by Charles Kingsley, accompanied by a wonderful selection of some of his most famous poems. The Water Babies is a timeless children's classic, detailing the surprising story of Tom, a chimney sweep, who, after being chased out of the house of an upper-class girl named Ellie, falls into a river and transforms into a 'water baby'- an insect that sheds its skin. Although mainly a fantastic story of Tom's moral education, The Water Babies is underpinned by themes such as the treatment of the poor and Christian teachings, as well as containing satirical leanings in support of Darwin's The Origins of Species. A deserving addition to any bookshelf and a wonderful story to be read to children, The Water Babies remains a favourite of discerning parents and sleepy children to this day. First published in its entirety in 1863, this scarce text is republished now with an introductory biography of the author. Charles Kingsley was a university professor, priest of the Church of England, novelist and historian.