Beatrix Potter

Beatrix Potter was an English writer and illustrator born in 1866. She created The Tale of Peter Rabbit, one of the best-selling children's books of all time. Potter wrote and drew pictures for 23 little books about animals with human personalities. Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-Duck, and Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle are just a few of her characters. Her gentle watercolor paintings bring her stories to life.

Peter Rabbit

The Tale of Peter Rabbit started as a letter Potter wrote to a sick child. She drew pictures of a naughty rabbit who sneaks into Mr. McGregor's garden to eat vegetables. When publishers would not print her book, she paid to print it herself. It sold so well that a big publisher picked it up. Peter Rabbit became famous around the world. The little book has sold over 45 million copies.

Artist and Nature Lover

Potter grew up drawing animals and plants. She kept pet rabbits, mice, and even a hedgehog. She studied nature carefully and made detailed paintings of mushrooms and flowers. Her book illustrations are known for their soft, beautiful watercolors. Later in life, Potter used the money from her books to buy farms in the Lake District of England. She left her land to the nation so it would be protected forever.

Fun Facts

• Beatrix Potter's first Peter Rabbit book was rejected by six publishers before she printed it herself.
• She kept pet rabbits and would take them on walks using a leash.
• Potter left 4,000 acres of farmland to the National Trust so it would be protected for future generations.

Did You Know?

Beatrix Potter was also a serious scientist who studied mushrooms and fungi. She drew hundreds of detailed paintings of them and even wrote a scientific paper!