A Child’s Garden of Verses illustrated by Millicent Sowerby is a cherished edition of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic 1885 poetry collection, brought to life with the delicate and whimsical artistry of early 20th-century illustrator Millicent Sowerby. Stevenson’s beloved verses—such as “The Land of Counterpane,” “My Shadow,” and “Bed in Summer”—capture the innocence, imagination, and quiet wonders of childhood, from playtime adventures to the cozy safety of bedtime rituals.
Sowerby’s illustrations, rendered in soft watercolors and intricate linework, evoke a nostalgic, dreamlike quality, perfectly complementing the poems’ tender charm. Her depictions of children, fairies, and pastoral scenes reflect the Romantic and Victorian influences of her time, adding a layer of visual storytelling that enchants both young readers and adult collectors. This edition stands as a testament to the golden age of children’s book illustration, where art and poetry intertwine to create a timeless keepsake.