Among the most popular children's books of the Victorian period, The Water-Babies continues to delight readers of all ages. It tells the story of a young boy named Tom, who escapes his harsh life as a chimney sweep by being transformed into a water-baby. As he moves down the river into the sea, he embarks on a journey to the Other-End-of-Nowhere, where he finally is redeemed
from selfishness. His adventures underwater introduce him to strange animals, gentle fairies, and exotic seascapes. He is tutored by two powerful sisters: Mrs. Bedonebyasyoudid, who metes out punishments, and Mrs. Doasyouwouldbedoneby, who counsels Tom in the Golden Rule. Kingsley frequently disrupts the mythical narrative with his commentary on such topics as evolution, politics, hygiene, theology, and education.
