Johnny Gruelle 
Wooden Willie – Written and Illustrated by Johnny Gruelle 

‘Wooden Willie’ is written and illustrated by Johnny Gruelle. Gruelle is best known for his ‘Raggedy Ann Series’, which chart the adventures of a little doll with red yarn for hair and a triangle nose. Although this particular story does not feature Raggedy Ann, her friends Beloved Belindy and Uncle Clem are included (as well as Wooden Willie of course). They provide entertainment as well as moral lessons to their young audiences; to be kind to those you meet, to always be generous, and to help those in need.

John Barton Gruelle (1880 – 1930), was born in Arcola, Illinois, in 1880. He was an American artist and political cartoonist, as well as a children’s book illustrator and author. His most famous illustrated works include Grimm’s Fairy Tales (1914), All About the Little Small Red Hen (1917), and of course, the Raggedy Ann series. Sought after by collectors, this re-printed edition showcases Gruelle’s original text, further enhanced by his wonderful colour drawings, in order that the two may be fully appreciated by young and old alike.

Pook Press celebrates the great ‘Golden Age of Illustration‘ in children’s literature – a period of unparalleled excellence in book illustration from the 1880s to the 1930s. Our collection showcases classic fairy tales, children’s stories, and the work of some of the most celebrated artists, illustrators and authors.