The Romance of Pilgrims

This wonderfully illustrated book retells a great American love-story and will be treasured by romantics of all ages. It is a dramatized portrayal of the Mayflower Pilgrims, part fact, part imagination, and presented as an epic poem -- a heroic legend -- a la Homer's Odyssey or Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. Henry Longfellow, the celebrated poet and possible descendant of the lovers, first composed the tale long ago. He created a mesmerizing Shakespearean ballad about three young friends who were Mayflower Pilgrims. They became involved in a tragic love-triangle shortly after arriving in America. Before their personal conflict could be resolved, a fierce Indian war threatened their village. First published in 1858, the saga was runaway bestseller for decades and celebrated love, family, and an eternal American Dream. The story's sensitive portrayal of young lovers remains a cultural icon. Now David Bradford, an award-winning author, has rewritten the story for a new generation. He uses modern free-verse to restore the tale's Shakespearean tone. His updated poetic verse ranges from epic drama to mirthful humor to radiant beauty. Dozens of restored monochrome engravings and prints enliven the text, based on portraits by Rembrandt, Van Dyck, Hals, and others. A charming portrait of a young woman in love, circa 1650, graces the book's cover. The result is an exceptionally life-like portrayal of the Mayflower Pilgrims. Includes more than 75-monochrome illustrations printed on crème paper.