The Wallypug of Why facts for kids
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| Author | G. E. Farrow |
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| Illustrator | Harry Furniss Dorothy Furniss |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's novel |
| Publisher | Hutchinson & Co. |
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Publication date
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1895 |
| Media type | Print (Hardcover) |
| Pages | 201 pp. |
The Wallypug of Why is a fun children's book written by G. E. Farrow in 1895. It's full of silly humor, clever wordplay, and strange situations. Many people compare it to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll because of its similar style. This book was very popular and led to a whole series of Wallypug stories.
Contents
About the Book
The Wallypug of Why was the very first book written by G. E. Farrow. When it came out, book reviewers really liked it, often saying it was like Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Kids who read it also loved it a lot!
What is "Nonsense Literature"?
This book is a great example of "nonsense literature." This means it's a story where things don't always make sense in a normal way. It uses funny words, strange ideas, and situations that are upside down. The goal is to make you laugh and think in new ways.
The Wallypug Character
The main character, the Wallypug, is truly unique and lovable. He's a bit nervous and seems to be in charge of the land of Why. But here's the funny part: his subjects actually rule him! He even has to call everyone "Your Majesty." Harry Furniss drew pictures of the Wallypug with his crown tilted, which perfectly showed his funny personality. Other artists who drew for the later Wallypug books copied Furniss's style.
The Story Begins
The story starts with a girl named Girlie. She finds a letter from her younger brother, Boy. The letter is sticking out of its envelope, and Girlie can only read a few words: "I have found a goo."
Instead of pulling the letter out to read the rest, Girlie stops to wonder what a "goo" could be. This simple question leads her on an amazing adventure!
Visiting the Land of Why
Girlie soon finds herself in the Land of Why. This is a magical place where all questions and answers come from. The Wallypug is supposed to be the king here. But it's a topsy-turvy (or upside-down) place! The Wallypug has to call all his citizens "Your Majesty" and do whatever they tell him.
Many of the people in the Land of Why are talking animals. They all have funny habits and strange personalities. For example, there's even a cockatoo who has some very interesting ideas!
The Illustrations
The pictures in The Wallypug of Why were drawn by Harry Furniss. He was a famous artist who also worked with Lewis Carroll on his books Sylvie and Bruno (1889) and Sylvie and Bruno Concluded (1893). Harry Furniss's 15-year-old daughter, Dorothy Furniss (1879–1944), also drew some smaller pictures for the book.
