Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin, published in 1903, is one of her earliest and most spirited stories. It follows a cheeky red squirrel named Nutkin who, along with his more well-mannered relatives, sails across a lake to Owl Island to gather nuts. The squirrels politely ask the resident owl, Old Brown, for permission, offering gifts in return. But Nutkin repeatedly taunts Old Brown with riddles and disrespectful antics.
Eventually, Nutkin’s impertinence goes too far, and Old Brown seizes him. Nutkin narrowly escapes but loses most of his tail in the process. Afterward, he is a changed squirrel—restless and slightly mad, a little wilder than before.
The tale is notable for its rhythmic, riddle-filled text and its blend of light humor with darker undertones, a hallmark of Potter’s storytelling. It also features her signature delicate watercolor illustrations and a keen observation of nature, especially British woodland life. Squirrel Nutkin remains a favorite for its lively main character and subtle cautionary theme about manners and consequences.
Description
Gray cloth bound boards with paper circle inlaid illustration on upper board and white lettering on upper board and spine. Illustrated endpapers and charming illustrations throughout. Fraying to upper spine. Detached spine but pages still bound fully together. Good condition.
