Beatrix Potter's "Picture Letters"

Currently, there is a rare exhibit of the works and papers of Beatrix Potter (author and illustrator of The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddleduck, and other beloved children's classics on the adorably cute and alarmingly dangerous world) at the Morgan Library & Museum in New York. Through January 27th, you can see her drawings and other works along with some amazing illustrated letters to young correspondents.

Here, she says to three-year old Eric who probably can not read himself, but can certainly enjoy the pictures, “Do you remember the little mouse which you saw at Bolton Gardens? I have got another one now with a white mark on its head. It is so tame that it will sit on my hand and eat hemp seeds.” Wow. I wish I were that good at writing letters to little kids. Perhaps they'd end up writing more letters when they were older if they started receiveing ones that are engaging when they are that young. Of course, Ms. Potter had a lot of practice conversing with young persons through words and pictures, but that doesn't mean the rest of us can't aspire to do better.

P.S. There's a slideshow over at the New York Times that shows another letter, and here's an article all about the show.

P.P.S. Thanks to member Michelle for the tip!

Comments

[Jessica]

Ohhh! I'm in love with B.Potter!! I wish that I was near NY. Maybe these will come to the Midwest?

[Anke]

This letter and her drawings are stunning!