The Classic tale of a man that helps his village get rid of rats is now reprinted once again in its original brilliance as it once was over 100 years ago. Colorful illustrations depict a village of children and animals as the Pied Piper entices the rats to leave the village and a happy ending for all. Historical Significance: In 1284, while the town of Hamelin was suffering from a rat infestation, a man dressed in pied clothing appeared, claiming to be a rat-catcher. He promised the mayor a solution for their problem with the rats. The mayor in turn promised to pay him for the removal of the rats. The man accepted, and played a musical pipe to lure the rats with a song into the Weser River, where all but one drowned. Despite his success, the mayor reneged on his promise and refused to pay the rat-catcher the full amount of money. The man left the town angrily, but vowed to return some time later, seeking revenge.