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Beatrix Potter: A Journalx$10.00
 (28 reviews)
Best Price: $19.99 $10.00
This lavish, illustrated journal describes Beatrix Potter’s life as a young woman in Victorian England as she struggles to achieve independence and to find artistic success and romantic love. Using witty, observant commentary taken from Beatrix’s own diaries, the journal features a wealth of watercolor paintings, sketches, photographs, letters and period memorabilia to recreate the world in which she lived.
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Customer Reviews
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A must-have for Beatrix Potter fans, young and old
By A2I7ZZNKHZ2MJR on 2007-01-07
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading and leafing through this interactive book.
The pages are richly printed on cardstock. Nearly every 2-page spread has something to do: lift-up card, fold-out note, 5-page "photograph album" booklet, pull-out letter in an envelope, fold-out map, lift-up stack-of-4 proof sheets, fold-out "The Game of Peter Rabbit", and more. All of these are printed on a variety of thick papers or cardstock.
A fun surprise is in the thick back cover of the book: a pocket holds "My privately printed edition of The Tale of Peter Rabbit" -- Mrs. Potter had her first run of 250 copies printed by Strangeways, before it was later accepted by a commercial publisher, according to this book. This Peter Rabbit book-within-a-book is not in color, just as the original was not in color, and its cover is ultra-thick cardstock (not hardcover). Beatrix Potter: A Journal, the main book, has thick padded covers, both front and back.
In fine print under the publisher's info and ISBN number, it reads, "This is a work of fiction based upon Beatrix Potter's journal and letters." It would have been more helpful to have more references and/or notes explaining which parts were based on fact.
Overall, this book is beautifully printed, imaginatively conceived, and great fun. I'm happy to add it to my Beatrix Potter collection!
Worth Reading Over and Over!
By A2K4HN6EECBNR3 on 2007-10-06
This is a journal, most of which was begun by Beatrix Potter herself at the age of sixteen. It is drawn from facts found in a number of places, in some areas and in certain ways. She didn't specifically "create" this giant, luxurious book, but the fact is, the story is essentially her real story. Her life was just beginning to change at sixteen, right at the point that this wonderful, illustrated chronicle of her dreams, hopes and experiences demonstrates. The book is enhanced by many drawings, her script on the pages, and also by charming additions such as letters in envelopes stuck to the thick oversized pages, which the reader can remove and read, just as the original recipient did, and locket facsimiles, and things like that. There are many drawings and watercolor paintings, which she created, of rustic scenes and animals, as well as photographs of her family, the houses they lived in, and her loved ones.
Beatrix Potter was a strong-willed woman (though shy), as well as a great artist. She spent her life anthropomorphizing animals in her tales, in the sense that they had clothing and characteristics which were human, but she seriously studied real animals devotedly, and she was true to their reality in her books. I think this is one of the reasons her books have been so beloved throughout the years by all children and their families. The realism and the fantasy blend so charmingly no one has ever been able to replicate this.
Beatrix Potter had a great love in her life: her publisher. Sadly, she was never to marry him. However, she did eventually marry a wonderful man at a later age. She had bought several farms and always remained in the country, living in its beloved natural beauty which encouraged the legacy which has affected all of us, the legacy which began with her first little book: Peter Rabbit.
I cannot recommend this book enough. It is beautifully done, not "kitchy" or fake in in its layout. This is such a moving story of a great, strong-willed woman.
Beatrix Potter has been beloved for her books and her tales for a hundred years. I am quite sure she will continue to be loved for many, many more. Cherish this book.
Beautiful
By A2J46D2YFDDMNH on 2007-01-01
My sister sent this book to us and I can't recommend it highly enough. It is beautifully illustrated with photographs and pictures. It has inserts that can be opened such as a photograph album, a letter, and most pleasing, a complete, removable copy of the original "Tale of Peter Rabbit." If ever a publisher should have taken advantage of the "search inside" option, it is this one.
The journal entries, however, are in cursive and may present a problem for some readers.
Nicely presented book 
By A2WFHJF4IHYYPH on 2007-03-12
This was a very nicely presented scrapbook but I was disappointed as I expected much more of Beatrix Potter's actual journaling to gain more understanding and appreciation of who she was.
Beatrix Potter: A journal
By A3URCHPL4X52YG on 2007-03-08
I was enthralled with this journal and promptly purchased two more for gifts. It is a very personal journal and sensitive in its production. I went to see the film Miss Potter and felt the journal complemented the film and brought the life of Miss Potter to a new level for me. I use it with groups who are doing a Creative Writing class and story writing. Loved by all.
- Very creative
By A2SCJTPN0XDW68 on 2007-01-03
This book gives you a good little history of Beatrix Potter's life but it's the way it is put together that is so adorable and interesting!
- Delightful Journal
By A47IEIEC5BIPQ on 2007-05-15
Charming journal utilizing Miss Potter's journals and letters as sources. A unique book that appeals to me as a writer, and as a total fan of her stories and illustrations. My mother read Beatrix Pottter's books to me over and over, because I would rather hear them again than hear new ones. I used to pore over the illustrations.
The movie Miss Potter is a work of art, and most of us in the audience sat mesmerized at the end, absorbing the heartwarming film. And I spoke to the stranger next to me as I left the theater, and told her to go to the bookstore and find this book. It is wonderful. I plan to give it as a gift to my grandchildren as well.
- Thank You,Miss Potter
By A2QY5KH3VT6PNL on 2007-05-10
We are given a peek into the enchanting world of rabbits and mice and shady meadows and charming stories and inspirations as Beatrix Potter comes alive on these pages. My 6-yr-old granddaughter and I loved opening tattered envelopes with "real sketches" enclosed.We read notes and secrets shared between loved ones.Glimpsing into the frontier of women writers as they dared to go to print. Total delight...a treasure to pass on in the family.
- An intimate & delightful recreation of Potter's inner life
By AK3PFKW6RQ2DQ on 2007-12-04
I've just bought this book as a Christmas present for my elderly aunt,who is a romantic soul who loves all manner of Victorian & Edwardian memorabilia.
There have a been a plethora of these kind of illustrated 'recreated' document-type books in recent years(think the 'Enchanted dolls House' series)& some of them are lovely,while others are sentimental,slim volumes of over-priced hooey.
This is well-worth the $AU35 I paid for my copy.Rich in detail,varied in scope,the reader really feels they are privy to the soul of a woman who,bristling under the thumb of tyrannical & overbearing parents,sought escape by immersing herself in a world of gentle,woodland creatures.
If you are an Anglophile,this book is for you.The illustrations of these most English of creatures are a real joy,lovingly reprinted in the most gorgeous water colours you will ever see in print.The faithful reproduction of the paraphenalia of the era(copious letter-writing,ink pen scrawled copperplate,magazine advertisements,printed pamphlets etc) will satisfy even the most nostalgia-prone reader & plunge them into a very accessible sense of the times in which Potter wrote.
For those of us who grew up loving the adventures of Peter & his friends,this is a worthy tribute to their inestimable creator.A true pleasure for the young & the young at heart.
- Portal to Potter
By A2SD149IU2XM7Q on 2007-10-18
Beatrix Potter: A Journal
What a treasure...opening the cover of this book is like opening a portal to the world of Beatrix Potter. You almost feel a bit guilty, like you are truly sneaking a peak into someone's personal diary. Each page offers little jewels that make you feel like a child again; surprises hidden in tiny peepholes to the author's genius. If you have ever wondered where she got her inspiration for Peter Rabbit, sneak a peek into her world, sneak a peek into her journal. Treat yourself to a selfish childhood pleasure...you will be genuinely-joyfully surprised.
- pass it on
By A2HIZY3MAI069I on 2007-02-23
When I received it, I read it through and passed it to my home schooled friends, and they loved it. I highly recommend it It is great for younger ones, for their are cards to open and things to peak at and art work is beatiful.
- piece of art
By A2RX3YSTQ3V3ZZ on 2007-02-21
Lovely piece for a Beatrix Potter's fan. Delicate, unique, full of surprises!
- A beautiful and interesting book
By AO8YVHP9B6YOQ on 2007-08-03
This is possibly one of the most beautiful books that I have seen. In addition it is extremely interesting as you can better understand Beatrix Potter through seeing the reproductions of her notes and letters as well as reproductions of some of her art. It is a great addition to the movie "Miss Potter." The Journal is a great element to add to the movie. They go very well together. I have put this book out on the coffee table and within a period of just a few weeks had many compliments on it even by some of my more jaded friends.
- Beatrix Potter - A Journal
By A1IDC5O1CHFXXZ on 2007-05-09
Great book. Love it. Also is a great book to have for those looking for ideas to do journaling. Beatrix Potter had a great way of writing about her life.
- Beautifully Done!
By A24XB0EDBXR1W0 on 2007-09-11
This book was beautifully done. Shows wonderful drawings, letters and pictures of Beatrix, her life and family. This is a wonderful book for any Beatrix Potter fan. Hope you all enjoy yours as well.
- beautiful and charming
By A1KPMZ59Y7IJ3W on 2008-01-18
This is a delightful book for any Beatrix Potter lover. It is along the same lines as the "Wizardology" books. Each page is filled with bits of information, drawings, photos, and memerobilia from Beatrix Potter's life. Great for any age. It is not a blank book that you can write your own journal entries in, it is more like a Scrapbook of Beatrix Potters life.
- A Spectacular Book
By AHIK7BUXFRMT8 on 2008-04-10
The biggest question I have about this book is how in the world can it be put on the market for only $13.59? The book is a complete delight. As some of the other reviews have mentioned; it has reproductions of letters, notes, and other items that give inside glimpses into the life and times of Beatrix Potter. There is something on almost every page to surprise and delight the reader.
This book can be enjoyed by both adults and children; it does need to be handled carefully as the reproductions of the notes and letters deserve special care.
Hidden inside the back cover is a reproduction of Beatriz Potter's privately printed edition of 250 copies of "The Tale of Peter Rabbit"; what a delightful finish to a tour of the life of a remarkable woman.
This is a wonderful addition to any Beatrix Potter collection and an amazing value as well!
- An enchanting must-have keepsake for Beatrix Potter fans!
By A1POFVVXUZR3IQ on 2008-06-03
'Beatrix Potter: A Journal" is a beautifully bound keepsake that Beatirx Potter fans will cherish for years to come. It is presented in the form of a journal or rather an album, and basically contains journal entries dating back to when Beatrix was 16 years old and had begun discovering wonderful things that helped her evolve into the creative writer and creator of Peter Rabbit and friends.
The journal is beautifully put together - there are old family pictures, reproductions of Beatrix's original sketches and drawings, personal documents [e.g. Beatrix's old report card] - what a delight to peruse these treasures. The journal entries themselves make for absorbing reading - though they are in cursive form and younger reders may need help with deciphering what is written. There are reproductions of letters to family and friends,delightful illustrations throughout the journal. Of interest is information as to how certain characters in The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Friends was inspired by real-life people, such as the character of Farmer McGregor.
There are many lift-the-flap features in this journal that makes it even more of a treat - there's an envelope containing a reproduction of the letter which contains the story of Peter Rabbit complete with illustrations, a map of the beautiful Lake District, a paper version of the game of Peter Rabbit, and the prize jewel in this journal - right at the end of the journal, embedded into it, is a little book "The Tale of Peter Rabbit"! One would not know it, for it is concealed so well - and indeed a delight to peruse.
I can't recommend this highly enough. I am a life-long fan of Beatrix Potter and my three-year old daughter is following in my footsteps. It is such a treat to be able to share this book with her!
- Finding Treasures in Grandma's House!
By A14SWYU1YD7TYI on 2007-02-15
This book has been compiled rather than written - it contains authentic memorabilia from writer/artist Beatrix Potter's life and all is arranged in a fascinating and compelling manner. We originally bought a copy of the book for our grandson but were loathe to part with it - so bought another copy for ourselves!
Beatrix Potter lived through an extraordinary period in English life and this is reflected in all of the photographs, messages, little envelopes containing real letters, drawings etc. depicted in this book. The sensitive arranging and editing of the content is presented so authentically that one is caught up in the life of the subject - as if finding little treasures in her own house in The Lake District.
It is a book to go back to - time and time again - to refresh little periods in Beatrix Potter's life. It is as if opening and finding old love letters or Valentines to re-read and capture the moment.
The artwork and treatment of the pages and covers gives the impression that each book was a personal scrapbook project made especially for one reader - You!
- Perfect gift for young & old
By AVSYEZVD0QRPB on 2007-09-19
My three year old loves to open all of the flaps and envelopes in this beautiful book & look at the pictures, while my mom & I have enjoyed reading it. Anyone who is a fan of Beatrix Potter, or just anything fanciful will enjoy this. There is also a wonderful suprise in the back cover.
- Beatrix Potter: A Journal by Beatrix Potter
By A67Q8LYDCUDH3 on 2007-11-18
This was far more remarkable than I imagined!!! It is like
going back in time. What a lovely display of memorabilia!!
- superior
By A3GUHVXCZ7CSP on 2007-12-08
I bought this Beatrix Potter book as a present for my mother. She was absolutely thrilled. It is an enchanting book. It was well worth the smile on my mother's face.
- LOVE it!
By A3PFASZF8EY9G on 2008-03-28
A simply gorgeous book that you must add to your collection. Lots of little pockets and fun stuff within the book. Being a full grown adult...I was very happy to find this colorful and interesting book. Large, thick cover. High quality construction and excellent arrangement.
- Suzanne, a Jane Austen, Alice's Adventures In Wonderland, and Beatrix Potter devotee
By A3U5689EBPUX57 on 2008-04-20
Entralling book at an incredibly low price, fully worth much more! A beautiful and wondrous work of art and whimsy, a joy for all ages! I will be reading and admiring this over and over again. This book is far too lovely to be shelved into a bookcase- do display it and enjoy the sweet memories that viewing it often will invoke! I thank the publishers for an inspired, dedicated, dear, devoted, honorable bestowment to the legacy of Beatrix Potter.
- left me breathless
By A1GHQQH6TILS2G on 2008-05-12
This work of fiction looks, feels and reads like a real journal, full of love, tender memories, and feels to me like it captured some tiny sense of what it must have been like to be Miss Potter. I search for words to express how highly I recommend this book; every one in my family that has enjoyed it felt a sense of excitement and wonder and awe. And the photos are so endearing!
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