Helen Bannerman (25 February 1862 – 13 October 1946) was a Scottish writer and illustrator of children's books. She is best known for her book Little Black Sambo (1899), which has been translated into over 50 languages and has sold over 50 million copies worldwide.
Bannerman was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1862. She was the daughter of a minister and a teacher. Bannerman began writing and illustrating children's books in the 1890s. Her first book, Little Black Sambo, was published in 1899.
Little Black Sambo is a story about a young Indian boy who is chased by a tiger. Sambo escapes by throwing pancakes at the tiger, and the tiger gets so full of pancakes that he explodes.
Little Black Sambo was a controversial book from the outset. Some people criticized the book for its racist stereotypes. However, the book was also very popular, and it has been enjoyed by generations of children.
Bannerman wrote and illustrated several other children's books, including Little Black Mingo (1901), Little Black Sue (1905), and Little Black Bobtail (1908). However, none of her other books were as successful as Little Black Sambo.
Bannerman died in Edinburgh in 1946. She is remembered as one of the most popular children's authors of the early 20th century.
Little Black Sambo is a classic children's story that has been enjoyed by generations of readers. It is a story about friendship, courage, and overcoming obstacles. The book is also a celebration of diversity and cultural difference.
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