R. Caldecott's Picture Book - No. 1 - Containing the Diverting History of John Gilpin, the House That Jack Built, an Elegy on the Death of a Mad Dog, The Babes in the Wood
This book, 'R. Caldecott's Picture Book No. 1', is a collection of the first four stories he published in the Caldecott 'Picture Books' series. These were published in pairs, every year, from 1878 until his death in 1886. Stories compiled in this volume are The Diverting History of John Gilpin, The House That Jack Built, An Elegy on the Death of a Mad Dog, The Babes in the Wood. Randolph Caldecott was one of the most important British illustrators of the Victorian period. He transformed the world of decorated children's books, with his delicate yet considered drawings and imaginative subject choices. Caldecott selected all the stories and rhymes he illustrated (and occasionally wrote) and frequently added his delightful style and humour to the stories himself. Pook Press celebrates the great 'Golden Age of Illustration' in children's classics and fairy tales - a period of unparalleled excellence in book illustration. We publish rare and vintage Golden Age illustrated books, in high-quality colour editions, so that the masterful artwork and story-telling can continue to delight both young and old.
Known chiefly for his book illustrations, Caldecott was a gifted artist respected by his contemporaries. The Caldecott Medal which is given out each year for the most distinguished children's picture book is named for him.
Sometimes his name is transcribed as Ralph Caldecott, for example on the book "The Babes in the Wood & The Elegy of the Mad Dog."
Having learned about Randolph Caldecott in library school, who completely changed the world of children's illustration during the Victorian period, I was eager to read some of the stories he illustrated. I picked up this volume from a library sale today and it is an addition of the book from the 1960s or 70s, and features both color plates and black & white illustrations. The volume includes "The Diverting History of John Gilpin," "An Elegy of the Death of a Mad Dog," "The House That Jack Built," and "The Babes in the Woods." Unlike today's stories which seem like they are trying to have too many Disney endings, most of these are unhappy (including the last story in which the children die). Recommended for ages 7+, 4 stars.
It is good to read children's books that have not been watered down or made politically correct. I truly enjoyed these three stories which do not all have a happy ending.
I read this as Project Gutenburg is preparing a copy to be posted on their system. They can use volunteers to help prepare books to be posted on their site. They provide books for free that are available in many formats, but they need people to edit, format or just simply read a finished text to make sure there are no problems before they post it. Look for this book to be out on the site soon.