Dick Whittington and His Cat – retold by Margaret Hodges, illustrated by Melisande Potter
ELIB 530A LibraryThing Part C – Traditional Lit. – Book 4
This book is one of many retellings of the story of Dick Whittington, a real man who lived in England in the late 14th and early 15th century. Dick Whittington was a well-loved three-time mayor of London. He never forgot his poor childhood and is remembered for his generosity later in his life. This edition is humorously illustrated and based on a 17th century chap book with period detail in the clothing and natural and built environment of the time. The drawings are rendered sometimes as if a child had drawn them, which adds to the appeal for children. I especially enjoyed the comical expressions that Melisande Potter gave all the characters.

I don't usually like this sort of story, but I ate this one right up. The illustrations aren't my cup of tea, but they work. ( )