Beatrix Potter the Complete Tales (Peter Rabbit)

This complete and unabridged collection contains all 23 of Beatrix Potter's Tales in one deluxe volume with all their original illustrations. The stories are arranged in the order in which they were first published so they may be read in their proper sequence. A special section at the end of this volume contains four additional works by Beatrix Potter that were not published during her lifetime. Beautifully reissued with a newly designed slipcase and jacket—a truly stunning gift. Reviewed by By Craig Matteson: This book is a treasure and every home should have a copy on their shelf. You will have children and grandchildren to read the stories to. And, for heaven's sake, you can read and enjoy them as an adult. These are children's stories, to be sure, but they are very charming, the language is pleasant and better than most of what is fobbed off as "children's literature" today. And the paintings and drawings are glorious. These stories have been in print for a century because they are so special. The animals are fantasies, yes, but Beatrix Potter was also a keen observer of animals and nature. I love how, in Nutkin, she has the squirrels bring the owl different gifts of animals to eat in exchange for gathering nuts on his island. However, she has the squirrels building rafts and traveling over the water to the island! My granddaughter loved this story and laughed very hard at how silly Nutkin is. This treasury also has a short note at the beginning of each story about its origins and the Miss Potter's life at the time it was created. Nutkin, for example, is based on the musings of an old lady who lived on the island and thought they squirrels came from all around when the nuts were ripe. She enjoyed thinking they came on little rafts. We also learn that "The Tailor of Gloucester" was her personal favorite among her stories, and it is easy to understand why. The stories range from those with few words to some with many words and fewer drawings. None of them are tremendously long. Readers of all abilities can find something to tackle. In fact, those who can't read yet should be given the opportunity to "read" you the story they see in the pictures. What fun that is! Another wonderful thing is how the characters make reappearances, but remain affected by what happened to them in a previous story. Peter Rabbit is never as rash as he was after his bare escape from Farmer McGregor in the first story. Simply, I cannot praise the quality of this book enough and urge you to get a copy for yourself and your family. It is produced with quality and care and is protected by a very nice slipcase. These kinds of collections are usually called a treasury, but this one really is a treasure. Do not forget to use the comment box below to make your comments and also subscribe.