Jane~ Our Heritage
Just wondering whether you've seen our selection of Everyman's Library of Children's Classics. The reason I'd love you to know them is not solely because these stories, fairy tales and legends which are so beautiful are part of our literary birth right. I want you to know them particularly because of my passion to introduce our children to classic illustrators. Can you imagine The BFG without Quentin Blake or Alice's Adventures in Wonderland without those brilliantly 'dark' illustrations of John Tenniel.
Just as a good novel is not always an easy read so to observe and understand the works of illustrators is not always easy nor should they be. Often these illustrations came about because the authors wanted to add another dimension to their work.
Having spent time to introduce our children to the often visual complexities of illustration in classic form we should feel happy that throughout their lives and for generations to come like bread and cheese the two will co- exist together as they so rightly should. As a Bookseller I get a certain glow when someone comes into the Shop looking for a classic insisting on the 'correct' illustrations.
King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table - Illustrated by Aubrey Beardsley
The Wind in the Willows - Illustrated by Arthur Rackham
A Child's Garden of Verse - Illustrated by Charles Robinson
Please pass on our Heritage.
Thanks, Jane