I've blogged here before about how shocked I am to read reports and statistics showing that a high percentage of children don't get a bedtime story. I really believe that it is never too early to introduce children to books and to create an interest in books and reading. I grew up on the stories of Winnie the Pooh and Beatrix Potter, with the adventures of Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddleduck and Mrs Tiggywinkle all becoming firm, childhood favourites. The Tale of Peter Rabbit is Potter's best-loved story and Peter is, arguably, one of the most enduring characters in children's literature.

To celebrate the 110th anniversary of the first printed publication of The Tale of Peter Rabbit, a special edition of the story has been published by Frederick Warne publishers. Published in 1902, this was Beatrix Potter’s first book, expanded from an illustrated letter she had sent to a young friend who was ill. The classic tale of naughty Peter Rabbit’s escape from Mr.
McGregor’s garden still brings to children all over the world the pleasure that it gave to its very first reader. The small, hardback books are a perfect size to sit and read with younger children - or just to look at the gorgeous illustrations with them is a real treat.

There are also some lovely accompanying Anniversary books. Dear Peter - Miniature Letters by Beatrix Potter is a collection of correspondence between Beatrix Potter and fans of her stories around the world, which continue the tales of her much-loved characters. The World of Peter Rabbit and Beatrix Potter is another lovely little book which shows how Miss Potter's unique talent transformed Peter Rabbit from a few sketches into an international bestseller.

These books would all make lovely gifts and keepsakes for any child and are priced £7.99. These, and other Anniversary editions of Beatrix Potter's books are available in all good bookshops and via the Peter Rabbit website bookshop

Discover more about the world of Peter Rabbit at http://www.peterrabbit.com/en

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