It was the twelfth night of the winter feasts
and giant yule logs had burned without cease . . .

Seeking refuge from a snowstorm, a nameless traveller is welcomed into an ancient hall to warm their bones and fill their stomach, if they will hear the stories of three wise men and judge whom amongst them tells the truth.

What follows are three tales of despair and devotion, of indigence and immortality. A lovelorn youth plies the object of his affections with golden rings, partridges and pear trees. An elderly man, tired of life, finds himself having cheated death and quite unsure of what to do next.

An enchanting festive poem from Carol Ann Duffy, former Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom, and adorned with gorgeous illustrations, Three Wise Men is the perfect festive gift for the poetry lover in your life.

Read a sample here