Broučci facts for kids
Broučci is a classic children's book. It was written by Jan Karafiát. The book was first published in the Czech language in the early 1870s.
The word Broučci means "beetles" in Czech. It also refers to special Czech characters. These are like fairy-like insect people, similar to those in the book. In English, the book's title is often translated as Fireflies.
Contents
The Story of Broučci
How the Book Became Famous
Broučci was first published in 1876. Its full title was Broučci pro malé i velké děti. This means Fireflies for Small and Big Children. At first, not many people noticed it.
But in 1893, a writer named Gustav Jaroš helped it become popular. He wrote a review in a magazine called Čas (Time). This review started a huge wave of interest in the book. Jaroš even called Broučci "perhaps the most beautiful blossom of the Czech children literature."
After his review, the first edition quickly sold out. The book was then reprinted many times.
The Author and His Book
Jan Karafiát's name was not on the book at first. It was only added with the 10th edition, published in 1912. By 1942, the book was translated into English. By 2004, there were 80 different Czech editions!
Broučci is now seen as a very important Czech children's book. People love its creative story. They also enjoy its natural, poetic style. The book shows an imaginary world through the eyes of children.
Broučci in Other Forms
The story of the fireflies has also inspired other art. Jiří Trnka, a famous Czech puppet maker, created beautiful illustrations for the book. These are still very popular today. The story also inspired a music piece by Václav Trojan.
The book has also been made into animated films. In 1967, Libuše Koutná made an eight-part TV series called Broučci. A new version was also released in the 1990s.
During World War II, people in a difficult situation performed their own version of the book. This happened in a place called Theresienstadt. It showed how art and stories can bring hope, even in tough times.
English Translation
- Jan Karafiát, Fireflies, translated by Rose Fyleman, illustrations by Emil Weiss, Allen & Unwin (London, England), 1942.
