4 DECEMBER 1909, Page 14

The Fascinated Child. Edited by Basil Mathews, M.A. (Jarrold and

Sons. 2s. 6d. net.)-This collection of sermons by ministers of several denominations is a curious mixture. Mr. Mathews writes in what might be called a " breezy," or, in other words, slangy, style, and his example is followed in many of the "Talks," with the notable exception of the one on "Francis : the Saint- Hero of Joy," by the Rev. and Hon. James Adderley. The inten- tion of the book is excellent, and will no doubt please people whose literary taste is not sensitive, though it seems to us a great mistake to think that slipshod writing is good enough for children's books.