The Tale of Kitty-in-Boots

I have just read The Tale of Kitty-In-Boots by Beatrix Potter and googled the details of the discovery - Jo Hanks, a publisher at Penguin Random House Children's Books, found the story in the Victoria and Albert Museum Archives. Was he looking specifically for an unpublished work by Beatrix Potter, to celebrate her 150th anniversary of being continually in print? Would be interesting to find out.

Whilst reading, I tried very hard NOT to look at the illustrations...taking nothing away from the master -Quentin Blake, who is possibly my favourite modern illustrator... just 'listening' to the tale in my head.

It has all Beatrix Potter's quiet humour, but to me, it lacks her usual 'punch'. However, 1914 must have been a very sad time for her; with the death of her father and the outbreak of WW1.

In her lifetime she did have another artist illustrate one of her stories, Sister Anne, illustrated by Katharine Sturges. Not a well known book, unlike her self- illustrated stories...not a surprise, really, as her wonderful watercolours are quite breathtaking.

Having Quentin Blake illustrate THIS story is fabulous. His superb illustrations are a joy and I am sure Beatrix Potter would have approved, after all her hero called herself Miss Catherine St Quintin...perhaps it was meant to be!