Beloved Belindy - Written and Illustrated by Johnny Gruelle
Raggedy Ann Series
on Goodreads (18)
What’s inside...
'Beloved Belindy' is written and illustrated by Johnny Gruelle, forming part of 'The Raggedy Ann Series.' The story revolves around the adventures of Beloved Belindy, offering entertainment and imparting moral lessons to young audiences about kindness, generosity, and helping others in need. This reprinted edition contains Gruelle's original text, enhanced by his captivating color drawings. Johnny Gruelle (1880 - 1930) was an American artist, political cartoonist, children's book illustrator, and author. He created Raggedy Ann for his daughter Marcella when she brought him an old hand-made rag doll. He drew a face on it, and was inspired by the names from two poems, 'The Raggedy Man' and 'Little Orphant Annie,' from a book of poems by James Whitcomb Riley. This moment marked the beginning of the beloved children's series that grew in popularity. Pook Press celebrates the 'Golden Age of Illustration' in children's literature, publishing rare and vintage books from this era in high-quality color editions to continue delighting both young and old. The copy published by M.A. Donohue & Company in 1926 is a hardcover with a dust jacket, featuring color illustrations and includes the Donohue advertising on the 'Do YOU KNOW' page.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-17
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Belindy feels when she helps others, and why do you think it's important to help friends?
What are some ways Belindy shows kindness in the story? Can you think of a time when you showed kindness like her?
Belindy faces some challenges in the book. What can we learn from her about how to handle difficult situations?
Why do you think friendship is important in the story? Who are your friends and what makes them special?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use pauses after each question to give your child time to think and respond. This encourages deeper reflection on the story.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s personal experiences. For instance, discuss a time when your child helped someone and felt good about it.
Highlight the emotions of the characters during your discussion. Ask your child how they think Belindy felt during key moments in the story to develop empathy.
Encourage your child to think about the moral lessons in the story by asking them what they would do in Belindy’s place in similar situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and compassion
Explanation: Belindy, the rag doll, is always ready to help and care for others in the story, showcasing her generous spirit.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to offer their help and kindness in everyday situations, whether it's sharing toys with friends or helping family members with small tasks.
Example Lesson: Resilience in overcoming challenges
Explanation: Belindy faces various challenges throughout the story but remains optimistic and resourceful, solving problems creatively.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to persist and find innovative solutions when they face difficulties, teaching them resilience.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Belindy forms strong bonds with other characters, demonstrating the significance of forming and nurturing relationships.
Real-World Application: Children are reminded of the importance of building friendships and being a good friend in their interactions with peers.
Example Lesson: Celebrating diversity
Explanation: Belindy's unique qualities are portrayed positively, advocating for acceptance and celebration of differences.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate diverse cultures and personalities, promoting inclusivity in their environments.