Faber Heritage brings back children’s classic The Story of Ferdinand
Faber & Faber has published children’s books since its beginnings in 1929 and is now launching the Faber Heritage imprint with the reissues of The Story of Ferdinand and Choo Choo.
‘I’m delighted to announce the launch of a new Faber Heritage imprint with the publication of The Story of Ferdinand and Choo Choo, two stunning lost classics that should never have disappeared from public view!’ says Children’s Publisher Leah Thaxton. ‘Faber Heritage celebrates both our own heritage and a select series of books that combine iconic artwork and word perfect texts – timeless books for every generation.’
The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf and Robert Lawson tells the story of a bull who, unlike all the other little bulls – who run, jump, and butt their heads together in fights – would rather sit under his favourite cork tree and smell the flowers. When he is picked for the bull fights in Madrid, he must decide whether to try and fit in or be true to himself.
‘First published in 1936 in the US, The Story Of Ferdinand has never been out of print and is currently published in 21 languages worldwide. It has lifted hearts, of young and old, across generations and around the globe. We are, of course, delighted that Ferdinand is now appearing in this new edition for the United Kingdom. His message seems more timely and precious than ever.’ Andy and Gil Leaf
When it was first published – in the same year as the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War – the book was quickly labelled as subversive, and supporters of the war saw it as pacifist propaganda. This resulted in international controversy; the book was banned in Spain, and Hitler ordered it to be destroyed.
Outside of its historical and geographical significance, The Story of Ferdinand to this day continues to resonate with readers with its universal story of someone who doesn’t fit into the norm. Its fans span generations.
This is, without a doubt, my absolute FAVOURITE book from childhood. I remember my mother reading this to me as a small child, and having to fight back the tears, the story touched me so deeply. I found significance in the extreme simplicity of the words and illustrations. I was impressed with Ferdinand’s gentle, yet strong, nature. He stood firm against the strongest pressures and remained constant. —Nikki, Goodreads
With 20th Century Fox and Blue Sky Studio’s release of an animated adaptation of the book – the most hotly anticipated Christmas animation of 2017 – the American classic is set to enchant and inspire a new generation of young readers.
Read more about the history of The Story of Ferdinand on the Illustration Chronicles.