The Crows of Pearblossom

by Aldous Huxley

Sophie Blackall (Illustrator)

Sophie Blackall, illustrator of the Caldecott-Medal-winning book Finding Winnie, created standout illustrations for this timeless picture book. Written in 1944 by Aldous Huxley as a Christmas gift for his niece, The Crows of Pearblossom tells the story of Mr. and Mrs. Crow, who live in a cottonwood tree. The hungry Rattlesnake that lives at the bottom of the tree has a nasty habit of stealing Mrs. Crow's eggs before they can hatch, so Mr. Crow and his wise friend, Old Man Owl, devise a sneaky plan to trick him. This funny story of cleverness triumphing over greed, similar in tone and wit to the work of A. A. Milne, shows a new side of a great writer. Paired with stunning illustrations by Caldecott-winner Sophie Blackall, this timeless tale is sure to grab the attention of many readers—adults and children alike.Praise for The Crows of Pearblossom “With Huxley’s mordant wit in ample supply, this tale will entertain literary novelty seekers.” –Publishers Weekly “Huxley’s story starts good and grim—just the thing to hold a young audience.” –Kirkus Reviews“A rather charming children’s book. The story is clever, wittily told and bristles with spiky humor — and it could quite possibly become a new favorite among schoolchildren. In the reissued edition, Brooklyn-based illustrator Sophie Blackwell transforms the chapter book into a picture book. Huxley’s standing as one of the grandfathers of dystopian Y.A. is already established. Perhaps the next generation will think of him as that guy who wrote about crows’ eggs.” –New York Times ARTSBEAT blog “A vivid picture-book edition with robust and suitably disquieting illustrations by Sophie Blackall.” –Wall Street Journal

• ISBN13: 9780810997301
• Publish Date: 1 March 2011 (first published October 1968)
• Publish Status: Active
• Out of Print: 10 March 2022
• Publish Country: US
• Imprint: Abrams
• Format: Hardcover
• Pages: 40
• Language: English

Reviews

[cherryblossommj]

Originally posted on Creative Madness Mama. 

Although I was familiar with the fact that author Aldous Huxley wrote the well known Brave New World, I had not personally read any of his writing. Then to be introduced by a long out of print children's book that has made it's way back to the market is delightful. This book is witty and fun and the illustrations are vibrant and imaginative. There is a definite humor throughout. I can easily imagine my father chuckling as he reads this to the grandchildren. I'm quite certain it will be loved by children (of all ages).

This little story was written as a story for his niece as I understand it and was published after his death in the 1960s. What a legacy to leave forward.

About the author
Aldous Huxley (1894-1963), the author of Brave New World, lived the latter part of his life near the Mojave Desert, where this story is set. Sophie Blackall is the illustrator of many children's books, including the Ivy and Bean series. She lives in Brooklyn. Visit her at www.sophieblackall.com.
This review was originally posted on Creative Madness Mama.