The Journal of Beatrix Potter from 1881 to 1887. Transcribed from Her Code Writing By Leslie Linder. With an Appreciation By H.L. Cox. [

This is a journal, most of which was begun by Beatrix Potter herself at the age of sixteen. It is drawn from facts found in a number of places, in some areas and in certain ways. She didn't specifically "create" this giant, luxurious book, but the fact is, the story is essentially her real story. Her life was just beginning to change at sixteen, right at the point that this wonderful, illustrated chronicle of her dreams, hopes and experiences demonstrates. The book is enhanced by many drawings, her script on the pages, and also by charming additions such as letters in envelopes stuck to the thick oversized pages, which the reader can remove and read, just as the original recipient did, and locket facsimiles, and things like that. There are many drawings and watercolor paintings, which she created, of rustic scenes and animals, as well as photographs of her family, the houses they lived in, and her loved ones. Beatrix Potter was a strong-willed woman (though shy), as well as a great artist. She spent her life anthropomorphizing animals in her tales, in the sense that they had clothing and characteristics which were human, but she seriously studied real animals devotedly, and she was true to their reality in her books. I think this is one of the reasons her books have been so beloved throughout the years by all children and their families. The realism and the fantasy blend so charmingly no one has ever been able to replicate this. Beatrix Potter had a great love in her life: her publisher. Sadly, she was never to marry him. However, she did eventually marry a wonderful man at a later age. She had bought several farms and always remained in the country, living in its beloved natural beauty which encouraged the legacy which has affected all of us, the legacy which began with her first little book: Peter Rabbit. I cannot recommend this book enough. It is beautifully done, not "kitchy" or fake in in its layout. This is such a moving story of a great, strong-willed woman. Beatrix Potter has been beloved for her books and her tales for a hundred years. I am quite sure she will continue to be loved for many, many more. Cherish this book.

I was enthralled with this journal and promptly purchased two more for gifts. It is a very personal journal and sensitive in its production. I went to see the film Miss Potter and felt the journal complemented the film and brought the life of Miss Potter to a new level for me. I use it with groups who are doing a Creative Writing class and story writing. Loved by all.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading and leafing through this interactive book. The pages are richly printed on cardstock. Nearly every 2-page spread has something to do: lift-up card, fold-out note, 5-page "photograph album" booklet, pull-out letter in an envelope, fold-out map, lift-up stack-of-4 proof sheets, fold-out "The Game of Peter Rabbit", and more. All of these are printed on a variety of thick papers or cardstock. A fun surprise is in the thick back cover of the book: a pocket holds "My privately printed edition of The Tale of Peter Rabbit" -- Mrs. Potter had her first run of 250 copies printed by Strangeways, before it was later accepted by a commercial publisher, according to this book. This Peter Rabbit book-within-a-book is not in color, just as the original was not in color, and its cover is ultra-thick cardstock (not hardcover). Beatrix Potter: A Journal, the main book, has thick padded covers, both front and back. In fine print under the publisher's info and ISBN number, it reads, "This is a work of fiction based upon Beatrix Potter's journal and letters." It would have been more helpful to have more references and/or notes explaining which parts were based on fact. Overall, this book is beautifully printed, imaginatively conceived, and great fun. I'm happy to add it to my Beatrix Potter collection!

This book gives you a good little history of Beatrix Potter's life but it's the way it is put together that is so adorable and interesting!

My sister sent this book to us and I can't recommend it highly enough. It is beautifully illustrated with photographs and pictures. It has inserts that can be opened such as a photograph album, a letter, and most pleasing, a complete, removable copy of the original "Tale of Peter Rabbit." If ever a publisher should have taken advantage of the "search inside" option, it is this one. The journal entries, however, are in cursive and may present a problem for some readers.