A New Nonsense Alphabet

Edward Lear's inimitable nonsense - pictures, stories, rhymes, songs, botany and alphabets - has amused and delighted both children and adults for nearly 150 years. Much of it was composed on the spur of the moment to entertain the children of his hosts, and marked the beginning of what was often a lifelong friendship.In the summer of 1862 Lear was a frequent guest at the country house of a couple who had a baby granddaughter. On his return to London he wrote her a charming letter, addressed to 'My dear little tiny child', in which he described himself as a respectable old cove who is very fond of small children & will give you an Alphabet bye & bye'.The pronounced alphabet, drawn in deep blue ink on pale blue linen, was duly delivered and, along with Lear's letter, is reproduced for the first time in this exquisite book.'A New Nonsense Alphabet' is an enchanting gift for absolutely anyone - your godchild, your grandfather, your sister-in-law, your best friend - or you yourself.