From man's best friend to wild beasts, five of the most enduring tales of animals in literature--together in one collection for animal lovers of all ages. Animals as characters have played a significant part in literature, from Aesop's ancient fables and the Garden of Eden story to contemporary literature. Gathered in this single volume are some of the most memorable animal stories that continue to stand the test of time.   The Jungle Book: Travel to the wilds of colonial India in this collection of seven tales centered on a young boy named Mowgli, who is raised by wolves in the jungle--with a supporting cast featuring a bear, a panther, a tiger, a python, and a tribe of monkeys.   Black Beauty: A nineteenth-century English horse recounts his dramatic life story, from his carefree youth on the farm to trying times pulling cabs in London.   The Call of the Wild: Buck the dog lived a happy life in California until his master's greed launches him on a life-changing journey in the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s.   The Wind in the Willows: Hold on to your hats and take a seat beside Mole, Rat, Badger, and the incomparable Toad as they encounter all kinds of adventure in the English countryside.   The Story of Doctor Dolittle: An English physician discovers how to speak to animals through his parrot, Polynesia, and soon sets sail for Africa, where he encounters monkeys, a vengeful king, fearsome pirates, and the rare pushmi-pullyu.