Raggedy Ann and the Laughing Brook - Illustrated by Johnny Gruelle

By Johnny Gruelle

Raggedy Ann and the Laughing Brook' is written and illustrated by Johnny Gruelle. Gruelle (1880 - 1930), was an American artist and political cartoonist, as well as a children's book illustrator and author.

The books of 'The Raggedy Ann Series' all feature their central protagonist, with red yarn for hair and a triangle nose – charting her considerable adventures. Gruelle created Raggedy Ann for his daughter, Marcella, when she brought him an old hand-made rag doll. He drew a face on it, and from his bookshelf, pulled a book of poems by James Whitcomb Riley, combining the names of two poems, 'The Raggedy Man' and 'Little Orphant Annie.' From this moment on, the much-loved children's series went from strength to strength. Sought after by collectors, this re-printed edition showcases Gruelle's original text, further enhanced by his wonderful colour drawings, in order that the two may be fully appreciated by young and old alike.

This book forms part of our ‘Pook Press’ imprint, celebrating the golden age of illustration in children’s literature. We are working to republish these classic works in affordable, high quality, colour editions, using the original text and artwork.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Read Books Ltd.
• Release date: Aug 26, 2016
• ISBN: 9781473359888

Johnny Gruelle

Johnny Gruelle was a newspaper man who began writing stories about Raggedy Ann at the turn of the century, in order to entertain his ailing daughter, Marcella. He wrote many stories about the rag doll and her brother Raggedy Andy, including two collections, Raggedy Ann Stories and Raggedy Andy Stories. Though Mr. Gruelle died in 1938, his legacy is continued by his family and the millions around the world who have been touched by his simple messages of love, respect, and friendship.

Book preview

RAGGEDY ANN AND THE LAUGHING BROOK

By Johnny Gruelle

Raggedy Ann and Frederika sat by the edge of a pretty little brook that wound its way through the tall yellow grass, and reflected the blue sky and the soft white clouds.

Raggedy Ann was a soft rag doll, stuffed with nice clean white cotton. Her eyes were bright shiny shoe buttons, and her hair was made of yarn. Near where her heart should be, she had a candy heart, with I love you written on it. She wore a blue dress and a white apron. In the pocket of the apron was a magic hanky.