Remembering Laurent de Brunhoff

 

Remembering Laurent de Brunhoff, 1925-2024

I've got a few more Arizona posts, but we're taking a moment from vacation posts to remember one of Buttercup's favorite authors, Laurent de Brunhoff, who passed away last week. I do read books that don't have pictures, but still enjoy illustrated books very much, and for almost seventy years Babar has been one of my favorite literary characters. 

The early Babar books, including the first in the series, The Story of Babar, were created by Laurent's  father, Jean, and were based on stories told to Laurent and his brother by their mother, Cecile. Years after Jean's early death from tuberculosis, Laurent became the voice of Babar for more generations of readers. 

Excellent advice!    

I was early enchanted with Paris and now that I look at the illustrations from the Babar stories, it's not surprising. I've never met Babar during my visits to Paris, but I can keep hoping that the kind and thoughtful Babar will one day be around the corner. 

Though there's been criticism in recent years for some of Babar's message I will take out the message of good will and kindness that Babar presents. My thanks to both Laurent and Jean de Brunhoff for bringing Babar and his friends to life and to my life. Au revoir!

As ever, thanks for visiting and take care.