British author and illustrator (1866-1943) whose Edwardian-era tales of naughty rabbits, bad mice, and other amusingly mischievous animals take a place among the most enduring and beloved works in the annals of children's literature. Her first and best-known book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, has sold more than 40 million copies since it was first published in 1902. ALS signed “Beatrix Heelis,” one page both sides, 7.75 x 9.75, March 19, 1942. Handwritten letter to Bertha Mahony Miller, a figurehead of the children's literature movement who established one of the first children's bookstores and founded The Horn Book Magazine. In part: "I received your letter…and about at same time the Jan-Feb Hornbook with your fine tribute to Anne Carroll Moore—it could not be better. What a wonderful purposeful life of achievement—purposeful, because she has had an aim all throughout her career. I have just made stories to please myself because I never grew up! Your letter…is so understanding that I gladly leave the question of how much or how little should be printed entirely to you. I see 'Nancy' has come into Hornbook mention. I am very glad! And I cannot help whispering that I think she is a more human 'interlocutor' than Nicholas-wooden-doll [referring to Moore's award-winning 1924 book Nicholas: A Manhattan Christmas Story]; though he seems to have been successful with children, and it was an inspired idea, for Miss Moore could not have carried a little girl about with her in her handbag. The news has been most distressing lately. But there is great hope from Russian success. I cannot think (and I don't want to think) that Australia is in peril. The Japanese are spreading themselves so far. And America & Australia have room to manoeuvre in open lands, unlike small islands. The loss of the Exeter & the Houston is serious indeed. But we will win in the end." In fine condition.
Past sales history: RR Auction, Fine Autographs and Artifacts, January 14, 2009.
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