The Tuesday Review: "The Little House" by Virginia Lee Burton, a classic picture book

Poor Little House. She was very happy on the hill in the countryside, but then over time, she finds herself neglected and surrounded by the tall buildings, the traffic, and the hustle-bustle of the city. What will happen to Little House?

This classic picture book by Virginia Lee Burton won the 1943 Caldecott Medal. It is a wonderful story with beautiful illustrations and interwoven themes about seasons/time, urbanization, happiness, and loyalty. If you are a fan of Burton's other classic, Mike Mulligan and the Steam Shovel, you'll love this sweet timeless tale.

And until June 21, you can see the original artwork for both of these books in an exhibit of Virginia Lee Burton's work at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art . The museum is located in Amherst, MA, and is a fun outing: see art in the galleries, read stories in the Reading Library, and make your own artwork in the Art Studio. (If you belong to the East Longmeadow Friends of the Library, you can use our discount pass for admission. Ask at the E.L. Circulation Desk).

Want to know what happens to Little House? Not telling. Let's just say that the man who built her was right. :)