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The Fourth Pig- originally published in 1936- is a wide-ranging and fascinating collection of fairy tales- poems- and ballads. Droll and sad- spirited and apprehensive- The Fourth Pig reflects the hopes and forebodings of its era but also resonates with those of today. It is a testament to the talents of Naomi Mitchison (1897-1999)- who was an irrepressible phenomenon--a significant Scottish political activist as well as a prolific author. Mitchisons work- exemplified by the tales in this superb new edition- is stamped with her characteristic sharp wit- magical invention- and vivid political and social consciousness. Mitchison rewrites well-known stories such as Hansel and Gretel and The Little Mermaid- and she picks up the tune of a ballad with admiring fidelity to form- as in Mairi MacLean and the Fairy Man. Her experimental approach is encapsulated in the title story- which is a dark departure from The Three Little Pigs. And in the play Kate Crackernuts- the author dramatizes in charms and songs a struggle against the subterranean powers of fairies who abduct humans for their pleasure.Marina Warner- the celebrated scholar of fairy tales and fiction author- provides an insightful introduction that reveals why Mitchisons writing remains significant. The Fourth Pig is a literary rediscovery- a pleasure that will reawaken interest in a remarkable writer and personality....