Leaf, Munro. The Story of Ferdinand. New York: Viking, 1936.

In referring to the book’s controversial satiric interpretation, Munro Leaf remarked, “It was attacked by everybody! . . . It was called ‘Red propaganda,’ a bitter satire of pacifism, on the one hand, and a pro-Fascist tract on the other.” Leaf, however, was quick to dismiss these interpretations. Shown here is a first edition, presentation copy of The Story of Ferdinand inscribed by Leaf to his friend “Rob” (Robert Lawson). The comical note written by Leaf to Lawson seemingly pokes fun at Ferdinand and perhaps reflects the author’s true intent in creating this children’s classic.

Lawson 2002-154