Peter Rabbit and Other Stories

by Beatrix Potter 

I was inspired to revisit Peter Rabbit and other stories after reading a book that was given to me by my niece.  Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life by Marta McDowell is full of photos of Potter and her gardens, and also beautiful examples of her original art work.  I learned about a fascinating woman through the stories of the flowers and gardens that she loved.  

 

For the first time in many years, I read the tale of the iconic Peter Rabbit.  First published in 1902, Potter had originally written the story in a letter to a sick child to cheer him up. 

Unlike his obedient siblings, Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cottontail, Peter decided to venture into Mr. McGregor’s Garden, even after warnings of danger and death.  Mr. McGregor spots Peter and chases after him.  Caught in some netting by the buttons on his coat, Peter despairs and gives up hope until some friendly sparrows implored him to try harder to escape.  Escape he does, but not before losing his jacket and shoes, which Mr. McGregor uses to make a scarecrow.  Peter returns home exhausted and is put to bed and given a dose of chamomile tea while his good little siblings feast on bread and milk and blackberries.  

Two lessons I’ve taken from Peter’s adventures:

1) Don’t give up so easily.  Don’t despair at the first sign of trouble.  Like those friendly sparrows said to Peter, exert yourself.  You can get out of the dreadful situation you’re in.  

2) A cup of chamomile tea is good for whatever ails you.