A Gallery of Children by A.A. Milne, first published in 1925, is a charming and whimsical collection of short stories aimed at young readers. Best known for his Winnie-the-Pooh books, Milne brings the same warmth, gentle humor, and imagination to these twelve tales, each focusing on a unique child with distinct quirks, dreams, and adventures.
The stories are more fanciful and lyrical than narrative-driven, often bordering on the surreal. Characters include children like Jemima, who doesn’t mind, and The Twins, who took turnings, each portrayed with delicate sensitivity and gentle wit. There is a nostalgic, fairy-tale quality to the writing, reflecting an idealized vision of childhood.
The book is beautifully illustrated by H. Willebeek Le Mair, a Dutch artist celebrated for her soft, pastel watercolors and finely detailed depictions of Edwardian children. Her illustrations add a dreamy, graceful aesthetic that perfectly complements Milne’s tone, making this collaboration a collector’s favorite in the world of classic children’s literature.
![A.A. Milne - When We Were Very Young 1924. First edition [1]](https://www.nocloo.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/aam-young1-300x400.jpg)
