Babar

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Babar

Babar the elephant recently turned 80 years - old and therefore so has the first book. The Story of Babar was created in 1931. The story originated from Cecile de Brunhoff who made - up the tale to tell her 2 young sons. It was this story that the books were then based
on. Her husband Jean de Brunhoff brought the elephants to life with
his drawings of them. He then turned it into a book. When he died 6 years later the handful of stories could have slowly disappeared never
to be published again.
But his son Laurent inherited his father's artistic talent and 9 years
later would carry on the creation. In doing so he had to learn to draw
like his father in order to recreate the same technique so that the drawings looked the same. This was because it was vital to him that the
characters remained identical.
Babar became an orphan after hunters shot his mother. He then leaves the jungle and ends up in the city where he is looked after by the old
lady who educates him. He discovers fine clothes, fine food, culture
and all sorts of interesting things. He then returns to the jungle and marries Celeste. He has become so knowledgeable that he is crowned King. Babar's trademark outfit is a green suit, a red bow tie and a pair
of spats. His choice of clothing somehow dates him; you feel he has
come from a different era.
In France they have been celebrating Babar's 80th birthday with exhibitions. They have made Laurent de Brunhoff a commander of arts and letters. It is the highest honour they can give an artist.
Babar has been translated into 17 languages and the books have sold millions. The books are still popular today so three
generations will have enjoyed the stories about Babar grandparents, parents and children.

© Children's Web Magazine 2012