The ABC Bunny – Wanda Gag
The ABC Bunny by Wanda Gág / ISBN 9780816644162 / 30-page hardcover from University of Minnesota Press
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A Newbery Honor Book (1934)
An unfortunate accident with an Apple drives Bunny from Bunnyland to Elsewhere. Every letter in the alphabet is represented in Bunny’s journey, through what he eats (Greens), to whom he meets (Insects, Jay, Kitten, Lizard), and then a little sleep (Nap), to Tripping back to town, right side Up and Up-side-down.
The creation of The ABC Bunny was a Gág family affair, with sister Flavia composing the “ABC Song,” included in this faithful edition; brother Howard penning the lettering; and Wanda writing and illustrating the story.
“Gág was among the first to create what we now call an artist-concept book–written, designed, and illustrated by one person. Her stories always have a funny twist that appeals to children. Her simplicity appeals in this complex world.”–St. Paul Pioneer Press
“Her body of children’s books is not large, but each title is a treasure, done in her instantly recognizable style.”–Horn Book Magazine
Best known for her Newbery Honor winner Millions of Cats, Wanda Gág (1893–1946) was a pioneer in children’s book writing, integrating text and illustration. Born in New Ulm, Minnesota, she rose to international acclaim. In recognition of her artistry, she was posthumously awarded the 1958 Lewis Carroll Shelf Award for Millions of Cats and the 1977 Kerlan Award for her body of work.
