The Wallypug of Why

by G.E. Farrow

, ix, [7],, 201 pages, adverts at rear [6], with page illustrations by Harry Furniss, and vignettes by Dorothy Furniss

Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 1896

About the author

George Edward Farrow was a noted British children's book author of whose life little is known.

During his literary career Farrow wrote more than thirty books for children. He encouraged his young readers to write to him, answered their letters, and let their tastes and opinions guide his future works (rather like his American contemporary L. Frank Baum). Though he wrote adventure tales and poetry, Farrow was best known for his nonsense books written in the tradition of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland , especially his Wallypug series.

Reviews

[Merri Barnousky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is basically an Alice in Wonderland wannabe, but all the incidents and characters are original so it doesn't feel like a ripoff. Our hero, Girlie, receives a letter from her brother, Boy, who says "I have found a goo". She falls asleep wondering what the heck a goo is, and ends up having a dream adventure where she tries to find the answer. In the process she helps the Wallypug (a much-abused kind of reverse king, who has to do everything his subjects tell him) improve his situation in life.

And also there's a Socialist cockatoo and I hate her. XD

[SPOILER ALERT]
...Actually, I guess the story has a pro-democracy (or at least pro-freedom) political message, since Socialism and monarchy are both made fun of, and the happy ending involves neither one being implemented.

[Ginevra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very quick (for an adult), extremely enjoyable read that leaves one relaxed and smiling. Doubtful as to its entertainment value for the modern child, and possibly the moral undercurrents are not quite the thing either, but, nevertheless, it was fun!