Originally written by French author Reuben Saillens and later retold by Leo Tolstoy, this endearing and timeless story has now acquired the status of a folk-tale and is great to read out loud with children. The heartening story of a lonely shoemaker named Papa Panov whose generosity demonstrates the virtues of kindness and compassion. Mig Holder's much loved text is complemented by charming illustrations by Julie Downing which capture the changing mood of the story.