Words + Images

The Cats’ Arabian Nights was first published by D. Lothrop of Boston in 1881.  It was written by Abby Morton Diaz and illustrated by a number of artists.  I found the book in a small antiques shop while traveling through Virginia.  The images hooked me more so than the book’s  story which is a feline rendition of the classic Arabian Nights tale.  Since returning to Boston, I have begun to research the author (who had strong and important Boston connections) and the illustrators. It has been much easier to find information on Ms. Diaz, e.g. http://womenshistory.about.com/library/etext/bl_townsend_diaz.htm

Of all the illustrators listed in the book, Lizzie Lawson intrigues me most.  Her images moved me to buy the book.  I think because her drawings seem filled with such emotion.