I’ve been trying to find the book I read in primary school. I don’t remember any names, quotes, or illustrations, just that there were a few short stories in the book. One, the one that sticks out most is about a boy who lives with his grandmother in the woods. He plays the violin and it’s magic, or the woods are magic, because he and his grandma are immortal. One day the King passes through and asks the boy to join his minstrels I think. The boy agrees, but finds out later that the magic remains only as long as he stays in the forest, and once he leaves it will not return. Another story involves a mermaid I think, and maybe a stone tower? I’m not sure.
Lost Classics of Teen Lit: Name That Book! 