Struwwelpeter: Merry Tales and Funny Pictures

Description

Heinrich Hoffmann was a popular psychiatrist who wrote many scientific papers as well as a few short stories for children. His book Struwwelpeter: Merry Tales and Funny Pictures contains 10 stories which deal with misbehaved boys and the consequences of their actions.

Published in 1845 under the name “Funny Stories and Whimsical Pictures with 15 Beautifully Coloured Panels for Children Aged 3 to 6” , the collection of stories was actually a result of the author being unable to find a good children’s book for the birthday of his 3 year old son. He subsequently decided to write his own book. He not only wrote 10 delightful stories, but also did the drawings and illustrations on his own. Many contemporaries have praised his directness as well as his innovative style.

The title Struwwelpeter actually translates to Shockheaded Peter. It is also the title of one of the stories, in which a boy named Peter refuses to comb his hair properly. He is thus unpopular and goes through a lot of trouble because of his neglected hair. Other notable stories include the one with the boy who, after terrorizing animals and humans alike, is eventually bitten by a dog who also eats the sausage he boy drops. Another story focuses on three boys who poke on a dark skinned fellow. Saint Nicholas catches the mischief three and puts them into a huge inkstand in order to teach them a lesson.

All stories have exaggerated consequences for misbehaving, and they do make a point. If some of the stories aren’t exactly happy ending, they do teach valuable lessons such as the reasons why children shouldn’t play with matches. Struwwelpeter: Merry Tales and Funny Pictures is a must read for young children, as well as for parents willing to educate the young and themselves.
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