Randolph Caldecott (1846-1886) was one of the most important British illustrators. He transformed the world of decorated children's books in the Victorian era. In 1877, he was asked by Edmund Evans, the colour printer and talented engraver, to illustrate two children's books. These books were an immediate success and he went on to produce two books every Christmas until he died. Caldecott chose all the stories and rhymes he illustrated and occasionally wrote and added to the stories himself. His delightful style and humour can still be enjoyed by young and old alike.
<br><br>
This story, 'The Farmers Boy', was originally published in 1881. Many of the earliest children's books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive.
