The Little White Bird - Illustrated by Arthur Rackham

The Little White Bird is a story written by J. M. Barrie. Ranging in tone from fantasy and whimsy, to social comedy with dark undertones, the narrative was first published in 1902. Whilst it is one of Barrie’s lesser known works, it attained prominence and longevity thanks to several chapters written in a strikingly delicate tone – introducing the character and mythology of Peter Pan. In 1906, those chapters were published separately as the book Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens – making this a truly fascinating example of Barrie’s early thought process, as well as a captivating read in its own right.This edition of The Little White Bird contains a series of dazzling colour and black-and-white illustrations – by a master of the craft; Arthur Rackham (1867-1939). One of the most celebrated painters of the British Golden Age of Illustration (which encompassed the years from 1850 until the start of the First World War), Rackham’s artistry is quite simply, unparalleled. Throughout his career, he developed a unique style, combining haunting humour with dream-like romance. Presented alongside the text, his illustrations further refine and elucidate Barrie’s enchanting storytelling.