Small Beer by Ludwig Bemelmans

Small Beer, an aptly titled profusely illustrated collection of ten stories and sketches, is authentic Bemelmans brew. Among minor classics of travel literature is Bemelmans’ account of a small island off the coast of France, where Madame Clamart, because of an unfortunate experience with a U. S. sailor, barred all Americans from her cafe.

Two tales, one about a dachshund, another about a Nazi dissenter who invented a seventh-class funeral, are not only funny but belong with the best satire yet written on dictators. In a story about a cobbler who belied the old proverb, Bemelmans combines entertainment for all members of the family.

Capricorn Books 1961 paperback edition in good condition, see photos. Rare! Personal inscription on title page.