The Reading Warehouse

Dating back to the sixth century BC, Aesop's Fables tell universal truths through the use of simple allegories that are easily understood. Though almost nothing is known of Aesop himself, and some scholars question whether he existed at all, these stories stand as timeless classics known in almost every culture in the world.

Gregory Hines (1946-2003) was an American actor, singer, dancer and choreographer. Hines began dancing professionally at age five and was a tireless advocate for tap dancing in America. He received a Tony award for Best Actor for Jelly's Last Jam and an Emmy for Outstanding Performer in an Animated Program for Little Bill.

Michael York is a successful screen and stage actor. Among his screen credits are Romeo and Juliet, Cabaret, The Three Musketeers, Logan's Run, and Austin Powers. Stage appearances include Britain's National Theatre and Broadway. His television work has garnered Emmy nominations and his audio recordings Grammy nominations, as well as five AudioFile Earphones Awards. He has been awarded Britain's OBE, France's Arts et Lettres, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Aesop has been known in history and in legend since the sixth century BC, or earlier, as a gifted Greek storyteller and the author of the world's best-known collection of fables. A Phrygian slave, there is speculation that he was freed as a result of his wit. Though little is known about his life, his remarkable wisdom regarding human nature, conveyed through his fables, has brought him great renown.