About Us, by May Gibbs, London: Ernest Nister and New York: E. P. Dutton, 1912.
I’ve been looking for a copy of this since I saw it in Collecting Children's Books in 2007. My nine-year search came to an end when I walked into a second-hand bookshop in *Salisbury. I had no intention of looking for books or anything else that day. I had a hair appointment, and was anxious to get it done and get home. For once my train arrived on time thus I had ten minutes to spare before my appointment. What were the chances? I could hardly believe my eyes when I walked through the door of the bookshop and there was the book of my dreams. I had to stop myself hugging it to my chest! The bookseller looked slightly surprised by my reaction, but honestly it felt like winning a gold medal. My heart dropped a bit when I opened the cover and found someone’s ‘little darling’ had been busy with the crayons. In hindsight, it was a good thing because it was priced to take account of the damage. Actually, it was ridiculously inexpensive, which meant I could still afford to give the hairdresser a tip. I do like a happy ending!
Collecting Children's Books published in 2007 with black-and-white image of About Us.
About Us began life as Mimie and Wog their adventures in Australia. Written by May Gibbs under the pseudonym Silvia Hood the story followed the exploits of a girl, a flying kangaroo and a little black dog. British publishers, however, rejected the Australian setting believing it lacked audience appeal. Unperturbed May Gibbs tried again this time changing the setting to Edwardian London. In this new setting, Mimie renamed Mamie, and her dog encountered the Chimney Pot People and a group of flying bat like creatures called Smuts. This was more to the liking of the publishers, and the book came out in 1912.
The following quote and accompanying image are from the original unpublished version of Mimie and Wog held by The State Library of New South Wales.
Hoppy called out 'Open your eyes', and there they were in a wonderful strange country – very wild with lovely flowers and such a blue sky. This is the new and "improved" version now called About Us.
As they walked along crowds of pigeons flew around them.
"We won't hurt you," cooed the pigeons. "Come with us to Chimney Pot Land," and without waiting for Mamie to answer they lifted her up and flew away.
All around were the funniest little people Mamie had ever seen. She though of poor Wog all by himself, and began to cry. The Chimney Pot King asked, "What's the matter?" "Oh, never mind that," he said, "I'll send my Smuts to find him."
THE END
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I don’t know about you, but I found the story rather odd and wonder if I might have preferred the original version. The illustrations are dramatic and interesting, and I’m thrilled to add it to my collection and to share it with you but it left me wanting more. If you are ever in *Salisbury, Wiltshire (UK), you should pop into The History Bookshop on Fisherton Street, you never know what you might find.
Although this was May Gibbs’ first published book, it remains largely unknown to Australian readers who are more familiar with her Gumnut babies. May Gibbs (1877-1969), author, illustrator and cartoonist, captured the hearts and imaginations of generations of Australians with her lovable bush characters and fanciful landscapes. Her iconic children's literature and folklore is still as popular as ever, holding a special place in the Australian consciousness. Best known for The Complete Adventures of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie, she also wrote and illustrated many other children's books, produced long-running cartoon strips and a variety of commercial work. A fiercely determined woman, she was Australia's first full-time, professionally trained children's book illustrator, developing an uniquely Australian fantasy vernacular which is relevant now as it was then. In 1955, May Gibbs was appointed Member of the British Empire (MBE) in acknowledgement of her important contribution to children’s literature. [Source -
State Library, New South Wales]
What do you think of the story / images?
Worrisome wombats, bouncing bilbies and even talking gumnuts may not be your de rigueur when it comes to picture book characters. Yet their antics make up a substantial percentage of picture book storylines and provide vital introductions and links between Aussie kids and our rich, endemic Australian flora and fauna.
Look around and you’ll find dozens of titles touching on everything from spoonbills to fruit bats, puggles to possums and jacanas to joeys. Many are by authors you know and trust offering true works of art worthy of coveting and collecting. Here is a tiny selection of some of the more recent releases.
Perennial author illustrator, Kerry Argent, has a tatty new First Reader series out now tailored for pre-schoolers. Small colour-popping paperbacks perfect for little hands and new readers feature old mate, Woolly Wombat, his bestie, Bandicoot and a swag of other Aussie birds and beasts in easy-to-read adventures. Beautiful introductions to counting, colour, rhythm and language conventions. Scholastic Australia March 2014
Book club nuts along with reluctant readers will adore Margaret Wild’s and Ben Wood’s The Bush Book Club. It has a little bit of brilliance on each page; rhyme, comedy, cuteness, colour and galahs! Bilby sorely needs to slow down and smell the ink but he is too busy and bouncy to read let alone actually enjoy a book until one fateful night he discovers what it’s like for his head to be ‘full of words and stories’. A marvellous look at what it takes to appreciate the wonderment of stories and a must in the classroom and home. Modestly adorable. Omnibus Books March 2014
Rhyming picture books are not always easy to digest (when produced badly), but done well they glide across our palates as smoothly as birthday cake frosting. So it comes as little surprise that Possum’s Big Surprise by celebrated duo, Colin Buchanan and Nina Rycroft, is a feast for 4 + year-olds and above. Fun, frisky, teasing verse coupled with super-rich, eye-pleasing water-colour illustrations, an Aussie bush backdrop and a perky possum named Flossy, give kids plenty of reasons to keep page turning. Scholastic Australia May 2014
Slightly more serious but quietly impressionable is Karana: the Story of the Father Emu, by Brisbane and Wakka Wakka leader, Uncle Joe Kirk and Sandi Harrold. In spite of the unwieldy title, this cyclical story is written in simple rhyming verse which unfolds easily leaving the reader fulfilled, enlightened and emphatic towards father Emu as he assumes the role of parent, nurturer, and chief educator for his chicks; just as father figures in many indigenous cultures do. An enjoyable tale to share with children because of its simplicity and heart but it was the emus’ eyes that clenched it for me; cute and clever! Scholastic Australia May 2014
A Feast for Wombat features another Aboriginal author, Sally Morgan and first time picture book illustrator, Tania Ezinger.
Wombat is your typical underground slumber-champion with a strong predilection for his burrow. He rarely surfaces. When he does he encounters the goodtime antics of his friends, Goanna, Magpie and Dingo but is slow to join them in play until their persistence and kind-hearted surprise re-instates how much they value Wombat’s friendship.
Sounds a little trite and ordinary I know, however Morgan attempts to balance Wombat’s self-depreciating, woe-be-gone attitude with a questioning optimism that he displays by complimenting his friends’ various talents and by trying to replicate them albeit with little success.
I was pleased Wombat’s self-doubt is finally conquered and replaced with a greater sense of self-worth however felt a little muddled by the oscillating attitudes of Wombat’s friends towards him; sometimes generous and grateful, sometimes hurtfully frank. Four year-olds are unlikely to dwell on this (it is after all how true friends can be) gaining immense pleasure instead from Erzinger’s spirited acrylic based artwork. Keep an eye out for the hapless little spinifex mouse on each page too. Gorgeous! Omnibus Books April 2014
Whether these titles stand up alongside such favourites as May Gibbs’ Snugglepot and Cuddlepie, Narelle Oliver’s Don’t Let a Spoonbill in the Kitchen! and Fox and Fine Feathers, Yvonne Morrison’s The Emu that Laid the Golden Egg or Jackie French’s Diary of a Wombat to name a few, time will tell. But like the tiniest creature in the Aussie bush, there is bound to be a spot for them in your heart and on your book shelves.
Oh good lord this is so adorable I just had to share it with you. I'm sure books by May Gibbs are very familiar in Australia, but we don't see that many of them in the UK. I've seen copies of Snugglepot & Cuddlepie and the Gum-Nut Babies in the past, but this is the first time I've seen Scotty in Gumnut Land. I'm a dog lover so anything about dogs always appeals, but this particular little dog is just wonderful! I'm sure you've already guessed that Scotty is a Scottish Terrier, but this is a terrier with attitude!
Scotty lives with his humans in a town in Australia. He’s happy enough but is bored with staying in one place, one day he manages to escape from the garden and set off on an adventure.
It’s not long before he’s set upon by two other dogs and ends up with an injured paw. Miles from home and lonely, Scotty meets a strange creature called Tiggy Touchwood who dresses in a conical black hat and scarf. Tiggy can conjure up spells that change the shape of things, bring them alive or turn them to stone. She has a friend called Mifrend (my friend), who works in a vast cavern filled with jewels. At one stage in the story, Mifrend, Tiggy and Scotty have to face a monster in the depths of the caves. But, as in all good stories the three friends end up living happily ever after!
Sometimes the covers are every bit as beautiful as the dust wrapper, and that is certainly true of this book.
Now that’s something you don’t see every day!
Further details about Scotty in Gumnut Land
here
Have you read this, or anything else by May Gibbs?
I'm pleased you found a May Gibbs book Barbara. I also have this one and I'm a May Gibbs fan.
I've read a lot of her books and Little Obelia is a favourite.
I hope you find many more:)
What an adorable little book!
~ I am thinking I am quite possibly in love with this, 'wee' book, Barbara....Just looked at your website....I was looking through the annuals... and wondered about 'Twinkle'**** Do you ever see this particular annual Barbara... Precious memories come with this book for me....~ With kindest thoughts,.....Maria x
I have NEVER seen this, ever! But I am a great lover of scottie dogs, any terrier really, who wears a striped t-shirt! Oh how utterly darling is this collection! Barbara, I am so glad I discovered your blog. Your posts are happy and sweet and this is the world that my husband and I have reveled in for all of our 31 years of marriage: the world of childrens' books. Thank you for this LIFT today, and I wish you a fabulous Mother's Day!!!!! Anita
What a lovely looking book. I do so hate being old (as my daughter constantly reminds me) because I would love to read one of these.
Oh my Barbara - this is just the cutest ever! I have never heard of her before - did she write the stories as well as doing the illustrations? (I suppose I should visit your web page first before asking questions - I'm off there now!) That cover is so adorable - I love the little bare bottoms - don't suppose you would be allowed to put out a cover like that now.
Hi Michelle, it’s a super little book I can understand why you are a fan. I'm pretty sure I've never seen a copy of Little Obelia, or if I have I've forgotten it. I don’t mind at all if this one doesn't sell, it would be very easy to find a home for it on my shelves! Thanks for calling in.
Hello Kandy, pleased to meet you. I will be over to visit your blog asap. It really is an adorable book. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. Barbara
Hello Maria, it’s certainly very easy to fall in love with, and I have to admit I feel the same way!
I have had copies of Twinkle in the past, but I don't have any now.There are some for sale at www.abebooks.com so you might find the one you are looking for there. Precious memories are the best kind!
Thank you for visiting my website, I really appreciate it Barbara xx
Hello Anita, isn't that stripy T-shirt just adorable! Our last little dog (Rosie) was a Cairn terrier. She had the same kind of character as Scotty, mischievous but oh so loving and oh so loved.
I’m so glad you discovered my blog too Anita. I love ‘talking’ with you, and visiting your blog. Collectors of children’s books are some of the nicest people around! Happy Mother’s Day Barbara x
Hello Roger, The person who first though of producing children’s books with adult covers was certainly on to a winner. It makes it much easier to read them on the train!
You will have to find a book you don’t mind damaging then hollow out the middle and conceal one of these inside. Problem solved! Barbara
Hello Sharon, there is just something so cute and innocent about this little book, but you’re right I don’t think any publisher would use that illustration now. Yes, May Gibbs wrote and illustrated it. I don’t mind how many questions you ask, if I don’t know the answers, I will do my best to find out.
Not one I've heard of before, but beautiful illustrations :)
Never heard of this either, but how adorable!! The image of the Scotty jumping the rope held by the kangaroos is just too cute!
This is such a cute story! I don't think I have ever read anything by this author- nor do I recall seeing her illustrations. This is just so fun! I love the cover and the details. Thanks for sharing this treasure!
Thanks Nikki-ann it is quite special. Barbara
I agree Diane. I just love that illustration! It makes me smile every time I look at it.
Hi Stephanie, I enjoyed sharing, thanks for taking the time to call in. Barbara.
Hi Barbara, I still have my childhood copy of The Adventures of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie "with lots of love from Mummy and Daddy" from when I was six. May Gibbs lived in Perth (my home town) for a while - if you had the chance to walk through our bush you would clearly see where she got her inspiration from. Thanks for sharing an Aussie classic x
Oh my goodness, such wonderful illustrations, simple and yet unbelievably sweet.
As they would say in the bush "that book is Fair Dinkum" great post well done.Agman
Geez, just the names alone would be worth reading these books! How fun and cute they are!
-Jamie
ChatterBlossom
Gotta love a story about a cute little terrier and a mysterious creature that can cast spells!
I wanted to let you know that I responded to your Sunshine Award on my blog (finally).
Cheers, Brandy from http://brandysbustlings.blogspot.ca/
A lovely blog
Thanks Agman, your comment was also Fair Dinkum!
Thank you!
Thanks Brandy, I'm looking forward to reading your post and will be over shortly. Barbara.
Thanks Tracy, glad you enjoyed them.
Hi Jamie, they certainly are! I feel so lucky to handle them and even luckier to be able to share.
Don't think I have ever seen any books by May Gibbs, and I obviously have been missing out on something. This book looks adorable, Barbara, I have always loved stories about dogs too :) The illustrations are very sweet.
Hello Hilde, I fell in love the moment I set eyes on this one. It’s just gorgeous. Thanks so much for your comment. Barbara.
Hi Kylie, I love the May Gibbs illustrations the little Gumnut babies are adorable! You are so lucky to have the original book given to you by your parents. I can only imagine how special that must be. xx
Hello Barbara! I have never seen this book before but that illustrations are so cute!
As always it's a pleasure to visit your fantastic blog, enjoying beautiful images and learning a lot.
Besos!
Thank you for your lovely comment Silvina. I feel just the same way about your blog.
I've never seen this either but it's so cute, love it! x
Thanks Suzy, I love it too!
I think you're right about the kangaroos and the terrier jumping rope. Very unique. I'm quite familiar with escape artist pups though....
Hi Eve, I had no idea your little dog was an escape artist, next thing you know, he will be learning to skip!
No, I haven't but you're right, it is adorable! Scotty, Tiggy and Mifriend sound like a nice gang to hang out with. And strangely, the name 'Gumnut Land' makes me a bit hungry ...
Hi Claudine, if it were called Cream Cake Land, I might feel hungry too, but I’m not so sure about Gumnut Land! Thank you for making me smile!
I will find a copy for you Sharon x
That's so sweet of you Kylie. Sharon has mentioned what a lovely friend you are, and I can see why. Barbara
I love the cover illustration! Yes, we grow up with May Gibbs in Australia, and love the Gumnut babies illustrations.
They are gorgeous little books I can see why you love them. Thanks for calling in.
Great illustrations - is May Gibbs the author and illlustrator?
Hello Jill, yes, May gibbs both wrote and illustrated the Gumnut stories, and very lovely they are too! Thanks for following and commenting.
I too was given a copy of this book in the 1950s. I loved it and so did my much younger brother and my children. I was hoping to pass it on to my grandchildren but unfortunately over the years it seems to have got lost. I have tried to get another copy but it appears to be out of print. This surprised me as I expected it to be in the same category as Enid Blyton and Beatrix Potter for popularity.