Sunshine | Ludwig Bemelmans

First published in 1950, this enchanting picture book by the creator of Madeline tells the story of a music teacher whose greedy landlord is foiled in his efforts to evict her on Christmas Eve. In so doing, as the original cover copy states, it presents: ‘a unique guide to New York City, showing its landmarks as they could only be seen through the eyes of Ludwig Bemelmans... Sunshine is pure Bemelmans of the most irresistible variety. The story, which concerns a children’s music school – and umbrellas! – has the gentle touch of Madeline, as well as some thoroughly ridiculous situations. At the same time, adults all too familiar with the housing shortage will join the children in applauding when the gentle little music school teacher outwits a landlord who “doesn’t permit cats or doggies or people who have noisy hobbies”. And everyone will rejoice in the happy ending to this delightful story.’