Description

The House That Jack Built – Illustrated by Randolph Caldecott

This story, ‘The House That Jack Built’, was one of the first two books illustrated by Caldecott, it was originally published in 1878. It is one of the classic British nursery rhymes, and an example of a ‘cumulative tale’ – it does not tell the story of Jack’s house, or even of Jack who built the house, but instead shows how the house is indirectly linked to other things and people. It is a favourite of children all over the world, and is here accompanied by Caldecott’s beautiful and delicate colour illustrations.

Randolph Caldecott (1846 – 1886) was one of the most important British illustrators of the Victorian period. He transformed the world of decorated children’s books, with his delicate yet considered drawings and imaginative subject choices. Caldecott selected all the stories and rhymes he illustrated (and occasionally wrote) and frequently added to the stories himself. His delightful style and humour can still be enjoyed by young and old alike.

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With works such as The House that Jack Built, Pook Press celebrates the great ‘Golden Age of Illustration‘ in children’s literature – a period of unparalleled excellence in book illustration from the 1880s to the 1930s.

Our collection showcases classic fairy tales, children’s stories, and the work of some of the most celebrated artists, illustrators and authors.

We publish rare and vintage Golden Age illustrated books, in high-quality colour editions, so that the masterful artwork and story-telling can continue to delight both young and old.

On this website, you can find out about some of our best-selling authors, illustrators, and stories. We also have a full bookshop, an introduction to the Golden Age of Illustration, and a history of the fairy tale itself.

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