
Sterling North was an American author renowned for his contributions to children's literature, particularly through his beloved book, Rascal. Born in a small town in Wisconsin, North's early experiences in nature and his affinity for animals profoundly influenced his writing. His most famous work, Rascal, published in 1963, is a semi-autobiographical tale that recounts the adventures of a young boy and his pet raccoon, capturing the essence of childhood wonder and the bond between humans and animals. The book's success not only established North as a prominent figure in children's literature but also highlighted themes of friendship, adventure, and the innocence of youth. Throughout his career, North wrote several other works, including the historical novel, The Last of the Great Scouts, which further showcased his storytelling prowess. His ability to weave personal experiences into engaging narratives resonated with readers, making his stories relatable and cherished. North's legacy endures as a significant contributor to American children's literature, inspiring generations with his vivid portrayals of nature and the adventures of youth.
“Badly drawn, badly written and badly printed - a strain on young eyes and young nervous systems - the effect of these pulp-paper nightmares is that of a violent stimulant. Their crude blacks and reds spoil the child's natural sense of color; their hypodermic injection of sex and murder makes the child impatient with better, though quieter, stories. Unless we want a coming generation even more ferocious than the present one, parents and teachers throughout America must band together to break the 'comic' magazines. But the antidote to the 'comic' magazine poison can be found in any library or good bookstore. The parent who does not acquire that antidote for his child is guilty of criminal negligence.”
“We do not own the land we abuse, or the lakes and streams we pollute or the raccoons and the otters we persecute. Those who play God in destroying any form of life are tampering with a master plan too intricate for any of us to understand. All that we can do is to aid that great plan and to keep part of our planet habitable. The greatest predator on earth is man himself, and we must look inward to destroy the killer instinct which may yet atomize the human race. Our morality must be extended to every living thing upon our globe, and we must amend the Gold Rule to read: ’ Do unto other creatures as you would have them do unto you!”
“We were probably as happy as anyone can be in our world.”
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