A whimsical and funny classic tale about a kind mountain man, a bizarre creature, and the clever plan that saves the day.
Deep in the mountains lives Bobo, a kind little man who loves nothing more than feeding the wild animals. Every day, birds, mice, and rabbits line up at his cozy cave for delicious nut-cakes and seed-puddings. But one afternoon, an entirely different kind of visitor arrives: a strange, fantastical animal with a tail like a dragon, fur like a dog, and a very peculiar appetite.
This animal is called the “Funny Thing,” and it doesn't want Bobo’s ordinary animal treats. Instead, it proudly declares its favorite food: good little children’s dolls! Horrified at the thought of children losing their beloved toys, Bobo must think fast. With a bit of quick wit and a recipe for a magical, sweet concoction called “jum-jills,” Bobo sets out to trick the creature into changing its mischievous ways forever.
Written and illustrated in 1929 by Wanda Gág, the pioneering creator of Millions of Cats, this delightful picture book features her iconic, expressive black-and-white drawings. Packed with gentle humor, silly words, and a comforting fairy-tale charm, it remains a timeless story about clever problem-solving and kindness.