Where the Blue Begins (1922) is a whimsical, philosophical novel by Christopher Morley, adorned with enchanting illustrations by the legendary Arthur Rackham. This allegorical tale follows Gissing, a restless and anthropomorphic dog who embarks on a quixotic journey to find “where the blue begins”—a metaphor for life’s elusive horizons and the search for meaning. Set in a world where animals live like Edwardian humans, the story blends satire, fantasy, and gentle existential musings, all delivered with Morley’s signature wit and charm.
Rackham’s illustrations, with their ethereal detail and dreamlike quality, elevate the book into a visual treasure. His depictions of Gissing’s adventures—whether aboard a ship, in a department store, or conversing with celestial figures—add a layer of magic to Morley’s already fanciful prose. The collaboration between Morley’s playful narrative and Rackham’s artistry makes this edition a coveted piece for collectors of early 20th-century literature and illustration.
For Fans of This Book, Explore:
- The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame (illus. Arthur Rackham) – Another animal fable with Rackham’s golden-age artistry.
- Puck of Pook’s Hill by Rudyard Kipling (illus. Arthur Rackham) – A blend of myth and history with Rackham’s iconic style.
- The Thirteen Clocks by James Thurber – A later, similarly whimsical fable with a touch of philosophical whimsy.
