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The Pedler of Dust Sticks   By: (1787-1860)

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In 'The Pedler of Dust Sticks' by Eliza Lee Cabot Follen, readers are taken on a delightful journey through the enchanting world of childhood imagination. Set in a small village, the story centers around a little boy named Charley, who stumbles upon a dusty old man with a bag full of peculiar sticks.

The author masterfully weaves together themes of friendship, empathy, and the wonders of the natural world. Charley's innocent interactions with the Pedler reveal the power of imagination and the ability of simple objects to ignite profound emotions. As the sticks transform into various fantastical creatures and objects through Charley's imaginative play, readers are captivated by the transformative power of a child's mind.

Follen's prose is both lyrical and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the whimsical encounters between Charley and the Pedler. Through her enchanting storytelling, she encourages readers to embrace their own creativity and find wonder in the everyday. Moreover, she deftly addresses deeper themes of social inequality by highlighting the Pedler's modest status and the compassion Charley shows towards him.

The characters in 'The Pedler of Dust Sticks' are endearing and relatable, capturing the essence of childhood innocence and curiosity. Charley's journey from a shy and reserved boy to a confident and empathetic individual is heartwarming and serves as a timeless reminder of the transformative power of genuine connections.

The book's illustrations, combined with Follen's descriptive prose, further enhance the reading experience. The imagery richly depicts the mystical world created within the story, inviting readers to visually immerse themselves in Charley's extraordinary adventures.

Overall, 'The Pedler of Dust Sticks' is an enchanting tale that will undoubtedly resonate with readers of all ages. Follen's poetic storytelling skillfully explores themes of empathy, imagination, and the joy of discovery. This book is a timeless treasure, reminding us to cherish our inner child and find magic in the simplest of things.

First Page:

THE PEDLER OF DUST STICKS

BY

MRS. FOLLEN

With illustrations by Billings

CONTENTS

THE PEDLER OF DUST STICKS. "ON THE GRAVE OF THE GOOD, GREAT MAN." THE MIGHTY DEEDS OF ABC. WHAT DAY IS IT? THE CHILD AT HER MOTHER'S GRAVE. EVENING PRAYER. THE SABBATH IS HERE. TO A BUTTERFLY.

THE PEDLER OF DUST STICKS.

One day I went to visit a friend, a lady, who came from Hamburg, in Germany. I was much pleased with a portrait which was hanging up in her room, and I was particularly struck by the ornamental drawings with which the picture was surrounded. They consisted of whip handles, canes, piano keys, mouth pieces for wind instruments, all sorts of umbrellas, and many more things, of every sort, made of cane and whalebone. The arrangement was so ingenious, the designs so fanciful, and the execution so good, that nothing could be prettier. But what of course was of the most importance, was the face and head that they were meant to ornament. "What a benevolent, what a beautiful face!" I said. "Who is it?"

"My father," the lady replied; "and he is more beautiful than the picture, and he is still more kind than he looks there."

"What is the meaning of all these bits of bamboo and these little canes, so fancifully arranged around the picture?" I asked.

"These little sticks," she replied, "tell the story of my father's success, and of the beginning of his greatness... Continue reading book >>




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