Generally, we try to review books that are gettable . . . we hate to tell you how wonderful a book is but, “Oh, so sorry . . . it is out of print and will set you back $50 or more.” But, sometimes, a book is worth talking about, even if it is hard to find. Maybe it is just so you can be on the lookout. Maybe it is because we hope a small publisher may see the review and fall in love with it and try to get it reprinted. Maybe it is just because we loved it and want you to know what a really great book can be. In the case of The Peppernuts by Maud and Miska Petersham, it is a little of all three.
This charming book, published in 1958, was printed by the Parent’s Magazine for their approved selections for Book Club for Beginning Readers. A longish picture book or a shortish chapter book, this little story is everything that is lovely and typical of an excellent book from the golden age of children’s literature. The writing is excellent while also being accessible for an emerging reader. The story is sweet, imaginative, and delightful. The tone of the story is playful. The family values are timeless. And, the illustrations are magical. This sweet little book deserves to be back in print someday soon.
Mr. Peppernut is a writer who has moved his little family out to a cozy cottage in the woods. Here, the children play in the trees, build castles, and study nature. Their life is uncomplicated and lovely.
Father builds a table and benches and paints them sky blue. Mother paints flowers on them to make them beautiful. Captain builds a fort in the trees while Flitter converts a mostly unused car into a play castle. And the twins explore Paradise Valley, careful not to run into any bears in the cave.
Everyone is very happy until they get the news that some man from the city wants to buy the little cottage they are renting. But, fear not, the family comes together and finds a way to secure their own slice of paradise.
This story would be a lovely book to read aloud before introducing young readers to authors like Hilda van Stockum and Maud Hart Lovelace. This story specifically reminded me of Canadian Summer.
You can learn more about this book and the Petersham’s at Biblioguides