“In an old house in Paris
that was covered with vines
lived twelve little girls
in two straight lines
the smallest one was Madeline.”
Madeline is one of the best-loved characters in children's literature. Set in picturesque Paris, this tale of a brave little girl's trip to the hospital was a Caldecott Honor Book in 1940 and has as much appeal today as it did then. The combination of a spirited heroine, timelessly appealing art, cheerful humor, and rhythmic text makes Madeline a perennial favorite with children of all ages.
Story & Pictures by Ludwig Bemelmans
About the Author
Ludwig Bemelmans (1898-1962) (www.madeline.com), a painter, illustrator, and writer for both children and adults, originally published Madeline in 1939. It lives on today, along with Caldecott Medal winner Madeline’s Rescue, as a seminal picture book in children’s literature. Ludwig Bemelmans’ grandson, John Bemelmans Marciano, carries on his grandfather’s legacy and has written and illustrated four books about Madeline of his own, including Madeline and the Old House in Parisand Madeline at the White House.