| Rupert
Bear annuals are probably some of the most avidly collected
today. First published in an annual in 1936, Rupert has
been published every year since, in varying formats.
The famous illustrator Mary Tourtel created Rupert and
he first appeared in the Daily Express issue of 8th November
1920. Her husband, Herbert Tourtel, also played a part -
he wrote the verses which appeared with the drawings.
After failing eyesight caused Mary to retire in 1935, Alfred
Edmeades Bestall took over the illustrations and also wrote
the stories himself. Following Bestall, Alex Cubie took
the reigns as illustrator with the stories being written
by Freddie Chaplain.
John Harrold presently illustrates the Rupert annuals, having
taken over the assignment in 1980.
Although Rupert has undergone a few changes - the most
noticeable in the 1973 annual where on the front cover
Rupert was controversially given a white face, instead of
his usual brown face - he is still the lovable bear that
children and adults of all ages can relate to.
With the many different Rupert books, including the Annuals,
(originals and facsimiles), The Adventure Series, and Little
Bear Library Series it's never too soon to start collecting! |
.jpg)
