Monday, January 11, 2010

The Diverting History of John Gilpin:

Showing how he went farther than he intended, and came home safe again. I am having internet issues, so my thoughts on this story by William Cowper, with illustrations by Randolph Caldecott, will be brief. John Gilpin is a picture book in which the titular character has some issues with his recalcitrant horse.
The story is pretty silly, yet comical, and at only seven minutes for a full read-through, it's well worth it. Don't just take my word for it...you can read it on your own by clicking here.

You may recognize the Caldecott name from the Caldecott Medal, which is given to the most distinguished children's picture book each year. Clearly, this is named for old Randolph because of his efficiency with a pencil. Coincidentally, the Medal in question even has a scene from this story on it!

1 comment:

Mom said...

Davey, that was interesting. I was surprised that I had never read that book. It certainly isn't written in the style of children's books today, is it?! I'll bet this is your favorite stanza:
John Gilpin kissed his loving wife.
O'erjoyed was he to find.
That though on pleasure she was bent,
She had a frugal mind.