I found an interesting little book in one of my gran’s trunks.  Her father gave it to her when she was a little girl.  It was printed in what looks to be 1897.

After some research, I have found that it is based on a book by a German psychiatrist who, after being unimpressed with books available, took it upon himself in 1844 to write his own book entitled “Struwwelpeter’ or shaggy Peter- which is collection of a series of short stories about naughty children.

This short story is called “Pauline and the Matches.” Take a look…I’m sorry if it is hard to read…

Can you tell where this is leading?

Is it me or do Minz and Maunz look a wee bit creepy?

Will Pauline learn from her cats?

Doesn’t look as though the cats are dancing?

Um…creepy…I really don’t think this would be acceptable for children in our society- mind you we are becoming more graphic with our cigarette packages….and it seems to me that every nursery rhyme or story I know ends up in the death of someone: Rock a Bye Baby, Jack and Jill, Ring Around the Rosy,  Hansel and Gretel, Gingerbread Man etc… Why is there so much death in childrens stories? Perhaps fear is the best way of controlling -youth..possibly everyone…hmmm…food for thought….

So be warned boys and girls- no playing with matches!

P.S. I thought there was something about those cats….