I have forever had a love for children's picture books but there really is something about vintage stories and illustrations that set my heart on fire. It's something about the texture and smell of the old pages, the colours and the charm and evocativeness of the story lines that really captures my imagination.
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| The First of the collection |
One of my favourites is "The Lonely Doll" which is the first children's book in a series by the photographer and author Dare Wright in 1957. Although it has been referred to as "sinister" and "creepy" by some, I find it to be an original and innovative classic with beautiful black and white photographs, which I absolutely adore, bringing the whole story to life. It has clearly influenced many, including Lauren Child's versions of the fairy-tale classics, Goldilocks and the Three Bears and The Princess and the Pea.
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| Edith And Little Bear heading over the Brooklyn Bridge |
It tells the story of a doll called Edith who lived in a "nice house and had everything she needed except somebody to play with." This all changes when one day two bears arrive at her doorstep.
Although the book may seem a little un-pc in todays world, it's simple message of learning through experience and the character's fondness for one another is genuinely endearing. There is, however, a certain sadness to the story which maybe part characterisation from Wright's troubled childhood and relationship with her mother. Hopefully after reading her biography, which is next on my list, I will know a little more.
Although the book may seem a little un-pc in todays world, it's simple message of learning through experience and the character's fondness for one another is genuinely endearing. There is, however, a certain sadness to the story which maybe part characterisation from Wright's troubled childhood and relationship with her mother. Hopefully after reading her biography, which is next on my list, I will know a little more.
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| "I hate rain," Edith grumbled crossly. |
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| Author, photographer and model, Dare Wright. |
Other vintage favourites include:
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstien.
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstien.
The Easter Egg Artists by Adrienne Adams
I can fly by Ruth Krauss and illustrated by the phenomenal Mary Blair
The Happy Lion by Louise Fatio
