Skitter Cat
Skitter is an odd name for a cat, but it just seems to fit the playful little white Persian kitten which is the hero of “Skitter Cat,” by Eleanor Youmans.
Skitter was naughty, and stole chickens, and ran all over the neighbors’ yards, so he was sent to the city to stay for a few weeks. But he never reached his new home. Instead, he ran away and hid in the woods. As it grew dark, Skitter grew hungry and longed for his saucer of cream and nice warm bed at home, but he was far away from his little master, and lost.
When a cat is hungry he can always find something to eat, so that is what Skitter Cat did. He found some mice, rabbits, crickets and quail. He also found a nice warm hole in a tree, which made a snug home on the long, cold winter days; for Skitter was a northern kitten.
For five long months Skitter roamed the forest and, after a short time, he liked the wild, free life of the wood creatures. But when the snow came and it was hard to find food he longed for his old home. Then it was that Skitter was rescued and brought home to his little master.Rev. of Skitter Cat, by Eleanor Youmans. The Washington Post 20 Dec. 1925: AF6.
There is an art in writing children’s books that even some of the world famous authors have not been able to master. The successful children’s writer is one who is able, in simple words which will engage the attention and understanding of the youthful reader, to tell a story which will arouse their imaginations and also teach a lesson. This Miss Youmans has done, mostly in words of one syllable, in relating the adventures of the home-loving Persian kitten which was lost in the woods for five months. Blood will tell, however, and even though it was thrust into dangers it never heard of, and probably like the fretful porcupine mentioned by Shakespeare, its hairs stood on end many times at the horrors it encountered, it displayed a lot of courage. It made up its mind that it was not going to be to be overcome by this new and strange world, but would return home to its warm fire and saucer of cream. Instinct, the great gift of dumb animals, came to its rescue, and it managed to survive and come home to the little boy with the aid of a little girl and a big dog, and lived its nine lives happily ever after.
Skitter Cat and Little Boy
Rev. of Skitter Cat and Skitter Cat and Little Boy, by Eleanor Youmans. “Books for Children’s Book Week.” The Miami News 7 Nov. 1926: 4.
SKITTER CAT and SKITTER CAT AND LITTLE BOY, by Eleanor Youmans. Two books about a sort of a Boy Scout cat that had real live adventures because he’s a real live white Persian cat. Lots of pictures by Ruth Bennett.Skitter Cat and Little Boy, by Eleanor Youmans. “Latest Books.” New York Times 10 Oct. 1926: BR37+.
With Illustrations by Ruth Bennett.
Skitter Cat and Major
Illustrated by Ruth Bennett. Bobbs-Merrill. 1927. $1.50."Third Book is Published: Pataskala Woman Writes Third Story of Adventures of 'Skittercat.'" The Newark Advocate 17 Sept. 1927: 16.
Pataskala, Sept. 17—“Skitter Cat and Major” is the title of the latest book written by Mrs. Eleanor Williams Youmans of Pataskala which is being published by the Bobbs-Merrill Company of Indianapolis. The book is the third in a series written by the same author. Mrs. Youmans has also written “Skitter Cat” and “Skitter Cat and Little Boy” both of which have been endorsed by the American Library Association and have been selected as one of the required readings in the third and fourth grades of the public schools. They have both been adopted by school and public libraries all over the country and have gained great popularity with juvenile readers.
Skitter and Skeet
Rev. of Skitter and
Skeet, by Eleanor Youmans. The
Saturday Review of Literature. 22 Dec. 1928: 544.
“Skitter and Skeet,” by Eleanor Youmans, is the latest of the “Skitter Cat” series. It tells of the trip to California of Skitter, the cat, and his master, Little Boy. The language is simple, and some of the material fresh and interesting, particularly those passages describing birds and animals unfamiliar to the child from the eastern states. “Skitter and Skeet” will doubtless appeal to the six-year-old. It does not, however, satisfactorily answer the question, “Where shall we find books of imagination and real distinction for the very young reader?”
Teddy Horse: The Story of a Runaway Pony
Rev. of Teddy Horse, by Eleanor Youmans. “Books and Their Makers.” Los Angeles Times 16 Nov. 1930: C14.
The small Teddy was a Shetland pony that was Shaggy as a Teddy Bear and as small and cunning as could be. When he shed his winter coat for one short and smooth, he felt quite grown up. The next thing he knew he was sold to a showman, where he learned his tricks, got lost, and by an odd succession of events worked himself back to his old home.
For children who love ponies this is the one best story.
Rev. of Teddy Horse,
by Eleanor Youmans. The Saturday Review of Literature. 28 Mar. 1931: 699.
BRISTLES. By THEODORIA WALTON BIRD. Illustrated by F. STROTHMANN. Little, Brown. 1930. $2.
TEDDY HORSE, The Story of a Runaway Pony. By ELEANOR YOUMANS. Illustrated by RUTH KING.Bobbs-Merrill. 1930.The circus has its appeal for almost every child. From the parade to the big tent offerings, there is some one thing (or a thousand) that strikes a responsive chord in every boy and girl. (Not to mention the blase adult who is forced to accompany the youngsters!) Next best is the circus story, since the shows are so far between. "Bristles" and "Teddy Horse" are circus stories, and instead of being about persons, they are primarily about animals. And two very special animals, in particular. Bristles, first named Joseph Leslie, was an adored—and adorable—wire-haired fox terrier. The kind that dog lovers love. Teddy Horse was a dear little Shetland pony who also had a mind of his own.Both books are written in a direct, straightforward manner, comprehensible to even a young child. The ever popular conversational parts are interspersed abundantly throughout, and the action is lively. The children involved play only subsidiary roles, but they are real children, childlike as befits them. The artistry of these stories lies in their simplicity and in each author's knowledge of her subject. Each one is possessed of a deep understanding, and a power to interest her readers. Each shows herself to be a lover of nature—of human and animal life As animal character studies, these two stories are exemplar. Bristles and Teddy Horse were endowed with that high type of intelligence which some persons are reluctant to concede to animals. Their ability to learn, their sympathy toward animal and man. their instinctive traits make them decidedly engrossing subjects. They are excellent prototypes of their kind. The illustrations add much to the character portrayal in their vividness and lifelikeness. In a word, the books should delight any child, and any adult who is yet blessed with childlike qualities.
Cinder: The Tale of a Black and Tan Toy Terrier
“Cinder” is the life story of a little black and tan terrier who has all the curiosity that should go with a healthy capacity for adventure. Eleanor Youmans must love dogs a great deal to make “Cinder” such an appealing little scamp, who is finally put into a play by her playwright master, and goes out on the road, a regular trouper. The illustrations by F. Bernard Shields are in keeping with the text, which means that they are very doggy.Needham, Wilbur. Rev. of Cinder, by Eleanor Youmans. “Good Reading For Boys.” Los Angeles Times 8 Oct. 1933: A4.
Illustrated with good animal drawings by F. Bernard Shields, the adventures of Cinder, a black and tan terrier with elephantiasis of the ears, should hugely amuse young children. Cinder goes on road and becomes lost, rides a box down the river, becomes an actress in a play, and officiates (covered in flour, a powdered pup) at her master’s wedding. In between, she indulges in normal play with dogs and cats.Rev. of Cinder: The Tale of a Black-and-Tan Toy Terrier, by Eleanor Youmans. New York Herald Tribune Books 10 Sept. 1933: 9.
Cinder was--indeed still is--one of those dogs so small it seems incredible they an hold their bark. She belonged to a man who wrote plays; that is, she may have been his little girl's dog, but she belonged with all her heart to one human being, and that was this man. Besides, had he not saved her life when she floated off into a flood on a packing box, and he had to dash back to town, get out his car, drive to where his boat was moored, row out and intercept the little raft far down the river? Little dogs seldom have so busy a day, nor stories about them such violent suspense.
Cinder had a nature lending itself sweetly to the uses of the stage. Her master wrote a part for her into his new play; at the moment when the villain is about to bring off his evil deed Cinder was to bark shrilly, "Berp! werp! werp" and thus bring his crimes to naught. She did this to great applause during a long run--until her master went home to his own town to write another play. Then Cinder could not see why it was worth going on barking. They thought the dog had gone stale. That is all they know about dogs. They found out more when her master came back.Ulrich, Katherine. Rev. of Cinder, by Eleanor Youmans. The New York Times Book Review 10 Sept. 1933: 13.
A pleasant, friendly little story of a black-and-tan toy terrier puppy. Boys and girls will enjoy following Cinder’s adventures, for the author understands children’s interests, and Cinder’s career, though lifelike and natural, is full of events readers from 7 to 10 will find absorbing. The author knows and enjoys dogs and Cinder emerges as a real and amusing personality. Written in a style that is simple and direct, this is a book that the less experienced readers will enjoy reading for themselves. The drawings illustrate the story adequately and have the same kindly humor as the text.Ulrich, Katherine. Rev. of Cinder, by Eleanor Youmans. The Saturday Review of Literature 10 (30 Sept. 1933): 154.
"Cinder," by Eleanor Youmans (Bobbs-Merrill: $1), is a straightforward unpretentious account of a black and tan toy terrier's eventful experiences which include among others, a puppyhood runaway, an encounter with a flood, and stage career. Cinder's story, as well as her belief in and devotion to her master, are frankly dramatized but the author never assumes that gushy, sentimental attitude too often found in books by humorless "dog lovers" which set the teeth of every dog respecter right on edge. That, alas, is the tone throughout of an un-from-runt-through-constant-bravery-and-loyalty-to-devoted-friends tale of a Scottie, "Mr. M. Tavish," told and drawn by Marion Bullard (Dutton: $1).
Little Dog Mack: The Story of a Wirehaired Terrier
Mack, Elsie M. Rev. of Little Dog Mack, by Eleanor Youmans. Boston Evening Transcript 7 Nov. 1936: 7.
When “Little Dog Mack” (The Bobbs-Merrill Co, $1.50) the indomitable little wire-haired terrier, was only three months old, Rachel and Ralph, the twins, thought he was another toy under the Christmas tree. But soon he is their daily companion and they his adoring slaves. Unhappily, after about a year he chases Mitzi, the white terrier, out of bounds, and is stolen and carried away many miles in an automobile to some kennels. Once escaped from the kennels, there are many exciting happenings on the long trip home. The author understands dogs just as well as she does cats, and knows how to make them come to life.“Mrs. Youmans Writes Book: Story Entitled 'Little Dog Mack' is Written by Pataskala Woman.” The Newark Advocate 26 Aug. 1936: 9.
Pataskala – Aug. 26. The latest book written by Mrs. Eleanor Youmans of Pataskala is entitled “Little Dog Mack” and is being published by the Bobbs-Merrill Company of Indianapolis, Ind. Mrs. Youmans is widely known as a writer of juvenile stories published in book form. “Little Dog Mack,” a book of 137 pages is the story of a wire-haired terrier, and is illustrated by VanTreck, the celebrated dog artist. The publication date will be Aug. 30.Rev. of Little Dog Mack, by Eleanor Youmans. The Catholic World 144 (Dec. 1936): 377.
Tally-Ho is a spotted Dalmatian but Little Dog Mack is the story of a wire-haired terrier illustrated by Van Treck (Bobbs Merrill Co. $1.50). There are not so many pictures as in Tally-Ho, but Eleanor Youmans tells the tale of Mack's kidnaping and how he found his way back to his family with so much sympathy and understanding that is knocks at the heart of any "doggy-minded" reader, young or old.Rev. of Little Dog Mack, by Eleanor Youmans. Kirkus Reviews n.d.: n.p.
Another dog story, about a dog that was stolen, and about his hundred mile trek back to his beloved young master. Good yarn -- and simple vocabulary. The story hs more spontaneity than the one above.Rev. of Little Dog Mack, by Eleanor Youmans. New York Herald Tribune Books 15 Nov. 1936: 30.
The wired-haired pup the twins receive as a Christmas gift looks so much like a toy as he sits under the tree that they take him for one till he moves. After that, he keeps on moving, and is taken to the heart of all the family, sharing not only its T-bone steaks but the popcorn, ice cream and candy of the twins. In short, though a reliable family dog, he is no better trained than most of his kind in small towns. He had never been taught, for instance, not to leave his own premises till a dishonest kennel-master uses this lack of instruction to lure him away. Then he is taught by decided means not to roam from that kennel, also to eat what is set before him, and in general to make the best of a not-too-uncomfortable but by no means happy period. He never loses the hope of going home. When an automobile crash releases him, far in the county, he makes a good start in the right back-trail, and is temporarily adopted by a small boy and protected by this gallant little person from the kennel authorities who come after him. Let loose to find his own folks, he covers a hundred miles before the day when the twins see a touchingly worn creature on the plazza and realize the unbelievable fact their dear Mack is alive again.
This is told in plain and simple words, to the advantage of a tale with genuine understanding of dog, and even of cat, nature. Mrs. Youmans made a reputation as an animal writer for young folks with her “Skitter Cat”; the new book has the same homespun, honest style of speaking for a small-town family pup and his truly dogged determination not to be lost forever. It is sympathetic without being sloppy, and little children will like it.Rev. of Little Dog Mack, by Eleanor Youmans. “Wirehaired Terrier has a Book Devoted to Him.” The Springfield Daily Republican 29 Nov. 1936: 7e.
Eleanor Youmans makes a wirehaired terrier the hero of her book “Little Dog Mack” (Bobbs-Merrill company: $1.50). She previously wrote a book called “Skitter Cat,” and in this book treats a dog’s life with the same sympathetic observation and understanding. One could not say that all the adventures are true, for, after Mack gets lost and stolen, he makes his way back 100 miles to his old home. Again, too, Mack may be more understanding than such a dog would be in reality, for the author tells how he saw “a caterpillar devouring its outgrown skin,” and the adult reader may wonder whether Mack would have grasped the meaning of the process. But Mrs. Youmans is writing a story for young people, not for dogs, and everything that he has to tell will be of interest to her young readers. The book will promote sympathy between children and dogs, which is natural enough anyway, although in this story it is a dog by himself in his own world that monopolizes the reader’s interest. The illustrations are in black and white.Rev. of Little Dog Mack, by Eleanor Youmans. Wisconsin Library Bulletin 32 (Nov. 1936): 112.
A likeable little wirehaired terrier belonging to Ralpe [sic.] and Rachel is stolen and carried off to distant kennels. The story of his escape and hundred-mile journey home will be appreciated by boys and girls who like dogs. For ages 8-10.
Waif: The Story of Spe
Eleanor Youman’s [sic] “Waif” is a fascinating dog story about Spe, a dog that lived in a Sigma Phi Epsilon frat house. Bobbs-Merrill gets it out for $1.50 and it is excellently illustrated by Will Rannells.Patterson, Isabel. "Piece Meal." The Zanesville Signal 5 Sept. 1937: Section 2, page 3.
We have just received one of the most delightful juvenile books that has come into our hands for some time, and would like to pass the word along to you. It is by a former Zanesville resident who spent most of his boyhood here—Will Rannells.
Mr. Rannells who is widely known as a famous painter of dog portraits has collaborated with Eleanor Youmans in the writing of “Waif: The Story of Spe.” For all dog lovers, whether grown-ups of children, this book will have great appeal. It is illustrated with interesting and unusual pictures of dogs, a great variety, includes the dachshund, beagle hound, English setter, terrier, cocker spaniel and the captivating mongrel heroine of the book.
You will remember Will Rannells who made those drawings of Scotty which were published in Life week by week. He lives in Columbus, where he is professor of fine arts at Ohio State university. He is also president of the Humane Society in the city.
The story of Spe, is that of a dog who went to college. It is a true story, and the dog is still alive. Spe and her friends live with Mr. Rannells.
An acquaintance here saw the book the other day and told me she remembered Spe as a great favorite on the campus at Ohio State. The dog’s name is from the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, as she was adopted by its members as a mascot.
Spe went to all the football games togged out in a scarlet and gray sweater with the varsity letters on the back, and she marched in the parades with the band.
Mr. Rannells has sketched many dogs owned by friends in this city, and he has many friends here who will be in for a real treat when they read this book.Rev. of Waif, by Eleanor Youmans and Will Rannells. “Books and Verses of Bibliographic Value.” Los Angeles Times 12 Dec. 1937: C9.
Canine Mascot.Rev. of Waif, the story of Spe, by Eleanor Youmans and Will Rannells. The Catholic World 146 (Dec. 1937): 377.
Children will like this story of a little mongrel puppy adopted as mascot by the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, how she went to classes and football games and how she was put in the pound by two fraternity brothers who did not like dogs.
Waif, the story of Spe, by Eleanor Youmans and Will Rannells (Bobbs-Merrill Co. $1.50), is so very real that a happy ending is a necessity. Waif is mostly Spritz with a fluffy coat and one ear which stands up straight, and she wins her readers' hearts just as she did those of the University Fraternity, who adopted her as a Life Member.Rev. of Waif, The Story of Spe, by Eleanor Youmans and Will Rannells. New York Herald Tribune Books 12 Dec. 1937: 9.
The real puppy about whom this story is written was marked $2 in the pet shop owing to a certain vagueness of ancestry. All her forebears, however, were handsome and wise, and she combined their varied beauties: their wisdom she needed even more, for the people to whom she was given did not appreciate dogs, and at once “lost” her in a convenient open space. There she led for some time the earnest and efficient life of a waif puppy, hoping for a home; it is a touching, not too touching part of the tale. For this place was a college campus, and the waif in time became, by way of the kitchen door, official mascot of Sigma Phi Epsilon’s fraternity house, with its initial for her name. Two unworthy members having “lost” her again, she spent time enough in an Animal Shelter to make many dog friends, and when two children celebrated after he return by giving a dinner to these hundred dogs, some of the best of the book comes from the reasons why so many contributed to the fund out of heartfelt gratitude to some dear dog friend. Spe settles down to college life, attends all classes without discrimination, and, I am happy to say, is still doing it, for all this did take place at Ohio State.
The truth of the tale goes clear through; no dog in it talks, but everyone who reads knows what they all think about life and folks, and even better, how they feel in hours that try dogs’ souls, when life must be faced without home or master.
"Story of Dog that went to College Wins Pet Lovers." Oakland Tribune 19 Dec. 1937: 18.
The story of a dog that went to college is delightfully told by Eleanor Youmans and Will Rannells in "Waif, The Story of Spe." The Sigma Phi Epsilon boys named her from the initials of their fraternity and made her their mascot, a pretty golden puppy, part spitz, park Pekingese and part mysterious mixture. At football games in the great stadium of the State university she wore a scarlet and gray sweater with the varsity letters on the back and marched with the band in parades.
How Spe found herself in the Animal Refuge of the Humane Society, made many friends and was given a Christmas party by Richard and Rosemary who lived next door, but finally returned home to Sigma Phi Epsilon, makes a story most dog lovers will enjoy. For Eleanor Youmans knows how to make dogs real and amusing to read about from her mongrel heroine to the dachshund setter, beagle hound, terrier and cocker spaniel.
Will Rannells' delightful drawing are from life. He is assistant professor of fine arts at Ohio State University and president of the Humane Society. The book is simple enough for small children but should appeal to any dog lover.
("Waif, The Story of Spe," by Eleanor Youmans and Will Rannells: The Bobbs-Merrill Company, Indianapolis, $1.50.)
The Great Adventures of Jack, Jock and Funny
"Friends Here Interested in Will Rannells’ Latest Book Dealing With Dogs." The Newark Advocate 25 Aug. 1938: 6.
Newark Friends of Will Rannells are particularly interested in the new book, “The Great Adventures of Jack, Jock, and Funny,” which was written by Eleanor Youmans and illustrated by Rannells, who has a national reputation as a painter of dogs.
The artist has been the guest in Newark on many occasions of Robbins Hunter, Jr., and the latter was his guest at an informal party given in his new home in the Sunbury road.
The book is being placed on sale in Columbus book stores Friday. Mrs. Youmans and Rannells had previously collaborated on “Waif, the Story of Spe,” which took as its original the dog owned by Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity at Ohio State university.
In their most recent book, Rannells and Mrs. Youmans have again tapped home resources for their subject matter. The story deals with the adventures of Jack, a collie; Funny, part poodle, part skye terrier, and Jock, a Scottish terrier. The collie and the poodle belong to Charles L. Hirsh, 4131 North High street, Columbus, and the Scottie to Professor George Frederick Arps, dean of the graduate school at Ohio State university. The book is dedicated to Hirsh.
The book was designed for children, but it will appeal also to dog lovers and to all who like a good story.Jose, Mary. “Life Histories of Real Dogs Are Depicted in Juvenile Book.” Columbus Citizen 1941 [exact date and page unknown].
Five year [sic.] ago a collie puppy was brought to the county dog pound by a disgusted farmer. Jack, he warned, had an unbreakable habit of running and killing chickens.
In a new book for children, published last week by Bobbs-Merrill, Jack is one of its principal characters and a hero.
About 10 years ago a tiny Skye terrier was found wandering in the debris of a railroad wreck at the Oakland Park crossing, a wreck that carried nine causalities. Funny, the terrier, frisks through the true story weaving a connecting link of events in “The Great Adventures of Jack, Jock and Funny.” It is the second collaboration of Eleanor Youmans of Pataskala, prominent in the field of children’s stories since the last time her “Skitter Cat” reached the market a number of years ago, and Will Rannells of Columbus, nationally known dog artist. It follows by a year, “Waif, the Story of Spee [sic.],” their first output.
Again, Will Rannells has furnished the dogs, their true life backgrounds and their lively illustrations. From these facts Mrs. Yumans [sic.] has woven an exciting story, embellished with imaginative details, appealing to child and adult reader [sic.].
Both from pictorial and literary standpoints it is better craftsmanship than their first venture.
Across the bright paper cover march Jack, Funny and Jock, just as they might have marched through the Rannells household last summer and winter posing for portraits and sketches while the book was in progress. With the three boarders, five permanent pets and a stray usually waiting for adoption, eight canines were frequent visitors to the studio room of the artist.
* * *
Real-Life Stories
To Charles L. Hirsch, 4131 N. High-st., goes the dedication of the book, the owner of Jack and Funny, the sky terrier. Jack figures in the book as a chicken killer who performs a herosis [sic.] rescue of Jock and Funny.
In his real life story he was picked up from the dog pound by Will Rannells and given to Charles Hirsch to board until a home could be found for the waif. Turned loose on the tiny farm that surrounds the Hirsch house on N. High-st. Jack made himself at home—permanently. His excellent collie characteristics have made model material for the artist. That pointed face has looked down from the gallery wall of the New York Water Color and Philadelphia exhibits. And in the course of six years Jack has been cured of his propensity for chickens.
The railroad wreck in Funny’s life furnish and exciting climax in the book. So does the store of tricks he had learned before he was picked up at the wreck by Mr. Hirsch, but the sad note in real life that does not find its way into the children’s yarn is Funny’s death just a few days before the book was published. Old age finally caught up with the writer in his 18th year.
Jock, the last member in this trio of leading characters, is the pedigreed Scottish terrier owned by Dean George F. Arps of Ohio State University. Like Jack, the little Scot is a favorite model for Rannells [sic.] paintings and watercolors.
* * *
New Frontispiece
Luxury loving Sally [sic.] and her propensity towards obesity has its counterpart in real life in the spaniel owned by Harry Chapman of Columbus. But for the sake of convenience Timmy, a Spaniel in the Rannells home, acted as a model for the illustrations. Sam and Rusty, the two setters who figure in a minor way in the book, are also owned by Mr. Rannells.
Into this story of canines creeps one white kitten, favorite animal of Mrs. Youmans and as familiar to her books as a trademark. Only once has the Rannells household had a kitten in its midst, several years ago when Mrs. F. L. Mock of Olentangy-blvd presented the artist with a handsome Siamese. It was kept in a cage out of reach of the five dogs but they eyed it continuously and longingly. At the end of three weeks it had to go back to its donor—with regrets.
What is to be next in the artist’s rather recent trend to children’s illustrations? Eventually perhaps a volume for which he has done not only the pictures but the story.
His animal picture book for babies published last spring will be reissued this fall with accompanying brief stories and a new frontispiece that will be familiar to Columbus residents—one of the Moores & Ross Co.’s famous Clydesdales.Rev. of Jack, Jock and Funny, by Eleanor Youmans. “Christmas Book Reviews.” Chicago Daily Tribune 10 Dec. 1938: 13.
The adventures of some happy dogs.Rev. of The Great Adventures of Jack, Jock and Funny, by Eleanor Youmans. "New Books." Syracuse Herald 21 Sept. 1938: 19.
“Funny,” 18-year-old Columbus, Ohio, poodle, died suddenly just a few days before publication of a book he helped to inspire. The story of his life written by Eleanor Youmans and illustrated by Will Rannells, under the title “The Great Adventures of Jack, Jock, and Funny” will endear him to the hearts of children. Publisher is Bobbs-Merrill, Indianapolis.
The Forest Road: Two Boys In the Ozarks
Rev. of The Forest Road, by Eleanor Youmans. The Catholic World 150 (Dec. 1939): 377-378.
A year or so older are The Two Boys in the Ozarks in The Forest Road, by Eleanor Youmans (illustrated by A. M. Froderstrom. Bobbs-Merrill Co. $1.50) which is a more routine juvenile with a mystery. A city boy and a country boy, when a trailer breaks down, and bobcats, swamp fires and fresh water pearls all figure in a story which has a nice forest background.Rev. of The Forest Road, by Eleanor Youmans. Kirkus Reviews n.d.: n.p.
Loosely hung story of a naturalist and his son, setting out for the Florida swamps (or so one gathers -- the locale is deliberately vague) with a trailer. Of the chance that delayed them a few days, and made possible a really intimate knowledge of the life led by an orphaned boy who turns out to be a long-lost nephew. It would be a better story if this element were not dragged in, for it makes the motive a bit questionable. There is enough incident to carry the main theme, and to make it a good yarn, but it is a potpourri of magic, dog tricks, swamp life et al.Stewart, Ruth Weeden. Rev. of Forest Road, by Eleanor Youmans. The Library Journal 64 (1 Nov. 1939): 872.
The Forest Road takes us into the Ozark country. The journey is made be a scientist and his young son in their car and trailer. Unfortunately, the trailer breaks down and the city folk turn to the hospitality and skill of the country people to help them out of their difficulties. The two boy characters represent the city and country interests and in their exchange of ideas become firm friends. Their is a mystery surrounding the farm boy and his parents which will keep the reader interested. Mrs. Youmans, who is accustomed to writing pet stories for the younger children, includes a cat and a dog in this story. The book, which is illustrated with sketches by Alma Froderstrom is suitable for boys of eight and nine years. Bobbs-Merrill, $1.50.
Timmy: The Dog That Was Different
“Lovely Dog Story.” Rev. of Timmy: The Dog That Was Different, by Eleanor Youmans. The Columbus Dispatch 14 Sept. 1941. [Page unknown].
Eleanor Youmans and Will Rannells introduce “Timmy,” the dog that was different because he was a mystery about him. As usual, this author-illustrator team offers an absorbing dog story which will appeal to every child who likes dogs, and what child doesn’t?Nahigian, Marguerite. Rev. of Timmy, the Dog That Was Different, by Eleanor Youmans. The Library Journal 66 (15 Oct. 1941): 909.
Timmy, a cocker-spaniel, is a summer boarder at the Gray kennels, and no one knows anything about his owner. Sever-year-old Annabel dreams a fairy story about Timmy, and some of it comes true, even to the prince and princess part of it.
Mrs. Youmans of Pataskala, Ohio, writes the ideal juvenile book, with every element present to entertain young readers, and their could be no better illustrator for a dog story than Mr. Rannells, famous Columbus artist, who uses his own dogs as models.
The Gray children, Charles, Chester, and Annabel, started a boarding kennel in order to earn some extra money. One of their first customers was Timmy, a fine gold and white cocker spaniel whose ownership was concealed. Annabel, whose charge Timmy was, invented a fairy tale about him in which she dreamed he belonged to a princess with long golden hair. As the mystery is unraveled it develops that Annabel's dream was not too fantastic. There are several other dogs besides Timmy in the story and the author has succeeded in creating a distinct personality for each. Very natural dialogue throughout makes this easy-flowing and lively. Suitable for both boys and girls, ten to twelve. Excellent illustrations by Will Rannels [sic.]. Average binding. Bobbs, $1.75.Rev. of Timmy, the Dog Who Was Different, by Eleanor Youmans. The Catholic World 154 (Dec. 1941): 373.
Will Rannels [sic.], who is a famous painter of dog portraits, lends added distinction to Eleanor Youman's [sic.] Timmy, the Dog Who was different (Bobbs-Merrill Co. $1.75), with his pictures so full of character and individuality. It is a good story in itself and in it we meet the same characters that appeared in The Great Adventures of Jack, Jock and Timmy [sic].Rev. of Timmy, The Dog That Was Different, By Eleanor Youmans, Will Rannells. [Publication, date, and page unknown].
An appealing story about Timmy and his strange ways, excellently told by Youmans, beautifully illustrated by Rannells, collaborators of “Waif,” and “The Adventures of Jack, Jock and Funny.”Rev. of Timmy, The Dog That Was Different, By Eleanor Youmans. Kirkus Reviews. 15 Sept. 1941: n.p.
This might overlap the lower age group in appeal- say from 8 to 10. Further adventures of the Gray twins, with their younger sister, Annabel, in the lead this time. (See The Great Adventures of Jack, Jock and Funny for past details) They decide to have a dogs' boarding house, and this is the story of Timmy, the cocker whose unknown ""family"" provided plenty of speculation.Timmy by Eleanor Youmans. “Latest Books Received.” New York Times 7 Sept. 1941: 27+.
A cocker spaniel’s story.Rev. of Timmy, by Eleanor Youmans. "New Juvenile Books." The Ogden Standard-Examiner 23 May 1943: 8-B.
“Timmy,” by Eleanor Youmans. The story of a beautiful gold and white cocker spaniel who appeared out of nowhere one summer at the Gray kennels. He was different from any other dog, and the story of why he was different and where he came from, makes this an unusual and interesting book.Rev. of Timmy, by Eleanor Youmans. New York Herald Tribune Books 2 Nov. 1941: 12.
The Grays, whose children started boarding-kennels in an earlier one of the favorite American family-and-dog stories of Mrs. Youmans, took in this time a dog that was different, a golden cocker named Timmy. At least that was what they made of the curious sound by which he was called, when he was mysteriously left with them. Timmy was an enigma. He was deaf, but young; brave, but strangely moved by lightning. Beautiful as only a cocker spaniel can be, he made friends politely but slowly, with dogs and men, yet never made himself at home.
He was waiting, and that makes the story. He was a king’s dog from one of the little countries lately chased off the map of Europe. That was why he was deaf, and why he was waiting for the stranger who returned at the close of summer and carried him off to happiness. For to a dog like Timmy it is never exile to be with one’s exiled master.“Will Rannells Receives Honor.” [Publication, date, and page unknown].
The first things I did when I got back home w[ere to read?] Youmans’ and Will Rannells’ new book whi[ch…?] press and even more delightful than its predec[essor “The Great] Adventures of Jack, Jock and Funny.” In the n[ew book “Timmy”?] we again meet all the animals and characters wh[…] runner one of the most delightful children’s boo[ks.]
Eleanor Youmans is an exceedingly good sto[ry teller?] Rannells’ portraits have always left me breathless. Well known for his love of dogs, Mr. Rannells [????] every sketch he makes with a result that charms [????] well as grown-ups.
The character of “Timmy” was woven about [????] beloved cocker spaniel who has been deaf since birth [???] loses none of the charm at the hands of Miss Yo[umans.]
Incidentally Mr. Rannells has just returned [???] from Portland, Ore., where he went to paint the p[ortrait????] The subject, a Boston named “Billie,” is owned b[y…??] Perry, who lives on the Falmouth Forside, n[???] during the summer and in New York for the wi[nter.]
Mrs. Perry asked Mr. Rannells to come out [to?] paint “Billie” this summer which was a great c[???] artist but one he richly deserves. While there hi[???] little house at the end of the estates’ private wh[???] Pacific ocean. Can you imagine a more inspir[???] artist?
Mount Delightful: The Story of Ellen Evan and Her Dog Taffy
Buell, Ellen Lewis. Rev. of Mount Delightful, by Eleanor Youmans. “New Books for Younger Readers.” The New York Times Book Review 11 Feb. 1945: 25.
When the Evans family—recently impoverished but not in least downcast—arrived at their log cabin in Ohio’s “Welsh Hills” back in 1832 they brought with them two symbols of their native Wales. These were Nancy’s harp and Ellen’s red sheepdog, Taffy. It was a good start toward making a new Bryn Hyfryd, and make it they did, with Taffy’s help is such matters as snake-killing and sheep herding. This is a simple story of home-building. Their isn’t much plot, nor much characterization—except of Taffy. But the book, one of the very few which deals with the Welsh settlers of America, has a natural warmth and a concreteness of detail to please girls of 8 to 11.Easter, Don. Rev. of Mount Delightful. Columbus Citizen. [Month and Day unknown] 1944. [Page unknown].
The latest series published by the Bobbs-Merrill Co. for young boys and girls offers a two-fold advantage: The books are informative and they are interesting.
They make no attempt to cram a lot of historical data down the throats of youngsters, but instead, provide an attractive picture of the early lives of early people.
Parents, somewhat skeptical about letting their children skim through blood-and-thunder comic books, etc., will find this new series and adequate antidote. And the children will find hours of pleasant reading. The books are profusely illustrated, too, with drawings and silhouettes.
“Mount Delightful,” by Eleanor Youmans, is the story of Ellen Evans and her dog, “Taffy,” who came to this country from Wales. Friendly and warm, the story describes the Evans’ family journey from its native land to the Welsh hills in Licking County, O.
These picturesque hills are a mile north of Granville, not far from Newark. Here the family settled, and Mrs. Youmans has searched old diaries and letters and visited the scene repeatedly so that every detail may be authentic.
Even “Taffy,” the dog who drove sheep and fought snakes in Licking County is historical. But Mrs. Youmans, a trained storyteller, does not let her craving for accuracy clog the action of the book. “Mount Delightful” lives up to its name."Mrs. Youmans Has Welsh Hills Story." The Newark Advocate 20 Sept. 1944: 3.
Mrs. Eleanor Youmans, Pataskala’s well-known author of juvenile books has been notified by her publishers that her new book, “Mount Delightful,” was released Sept. 15. “Mount Delightful” is a story of the Welsh Hills of Licking County and the background is based on the childhood of Mrs. Youmans’ grandmother, Eleanor Evans. While the story of the new book has a historical background, a good [sense] of fiction has been added and the publishers are genuinely enthusiastic in saying it is the best book Mrs. Youmans has written to date.Rev. of Mount Delightful, by Eleanor Youmans. Bulletin from Virginia Kirkus’ Bookshop Service 15 Jul. 1944: 321.
As pleasing as its title – for these are nice people to know, these Evan’s from Wales, who begin a new life in America in 1832. Nancy is 16, Tom, 14 and Ellen 12, and after their experiences on shipboard, they find a comfortable life in Welsh Hills, Ohio. Ellen proves domesticity worthwhile, and learns that wilderness life has many dangers. Nice – in the nicest sense of the word. Illustrated. (9/5) $1.75.“New Book Published by Local Author.” [Columbus Dispatch?] Sept. 1944. Page Unknown.
Mrs. Eleanor Youmans, Pataskala’s well known author of juvenile books, has been notified by her publishers that her new book, “Mount Delightful,” will be released September 15th, Friday of this week.
“Mount Delightful” is a story of the Welsh Hills of Licking county, and the background is based on the childhood of Mrs. Youmans’ grandmother, Eleanor Evans. While the story of the new book has a historical background, a good share of fiction has been added and the publishers are genuinely enthusiastic in saying it is the best book Mrs. Youmans has written to date.
Mrs. Youmans has already received her advance copies. The Standard office has a number of copies ordered from the publishers. If one or more copies are desired, the order should be left now at this office and they will be filled as rapidly as possible in the order in which they are received.Rev. of Mount Delightful: Story of Ellen Evans and Her Dog Taffy, by Eleanor Youmans. “For Boys and Girls (9-12).” The Norwalk Hour 21 Feb. 1945: 10.
Mount Delightful; Story of Ellen Evans and Her Dog Taffy, by Eleanor Youmans.Rev. of Mount Delightful, by Eleanor Youmans. “Peabody Bimonthly Booknotes.” Peabody Journal of Education 23.2 (Sept. 1945): 119.
Story of a Welsh settlement in Ohio in 1832. Ellen and Nancy were sisters who came from Wales with their parents to live at Welsh Hills. Ellen brought a red shepherd puppy with her. The description of their journey is charming. Excellent for girls in grades 4-6.S., L.R. Rev. of Mount Delightful, by Eleanor Youmans. The Springfield Daily Republican 31 Dec. 1944: 4d.
“Mount Delightful,” by Eleanor Youmans (Bobbs-Merrill, $1.75) is a book of unusual historical interest. It is based on the story of Mrs. Youmans’ own grandmother. Eleanor Evans who came with her family from Wales to the Welsh hills in Licking county, O., in 1832. The long journey to America is an exciting one for the Evans family; four weeks on the Betsy Bell, then many days travel by coach, steamboat and canalboat before their Aunt Nancy Davis. Ellen and Taffy love their log cabin in the Welsh hills and find many new and interesting things to do. The everyday happenings in the little community form a fascinating background for the story.
The Skitter Cat Book
Rev. of Skitter Cat Book, by Eleanor Youmans. “Books at the City Libraries.” Daytona Beach Morning Journal 21 Mar. 1955: 2.
Skitter Cat Book, by Eleanor Youmans—Three short stories.
Rev. of The Skitter Cat Book, by Eleanor Youmans. “Peabody Bimonthly Booknotes.” Peabody Journal of Education 25.6 (May 1948): 310.
A reprint edition of three stories: Skitter Cat; Skitter Cat and the Major [sic.]; and Skitter Cat and Little Boy. The child is called Little Boy all through the three stories. This limits the interest in the book to younger children than would otherwise enjoy it. Grades 1-3.“The Skitter Cat Book.” Display Ad. New York Times 13 Jul. 1952: 52.
The Skitter Cat Book. By Eleanor Youmans. Three adventure stories of a beautiful white Persian cat, his Airedale pal and their owner—in own illustrated volume. For boys and girls 8 to 12. Pub. at 2.50. Now 1.00.
