I actually have a memory of going to the book store and buying this book... I was in kindergarten and I fell in love with it the second I opened it and saw the pictures. It was my first chapter book although I didn't notice as the pictures kept me inthrawled and the wonderful story went on and on. Over the years it has been read a hundred time taken from the shelf anytime I needed a smile. And when I went to college it was the one children's book I took with me. And one which i still delight in showing friends. I have looked for another copy of this book for ages, in hopes of giving it to a young cousin.... and if ever there was a book that deserves to be rescued from its out of print status this is it. No one reading this book could every be disapointed. The story is captivating and the illistrations so incredible you often find yourself mearly turning pages trying to identify which is your favorite