Watty Piper’s the Little Engine That Could: A Perfect Bedtime Story
Mention the Little Engine That Could to many readers, and they are sure to smile at memories of the colorful Watty Piper tale about a small locomotive that needs to pull a train up a mountain that they heard as one of their bedtime stories. The story has given an innumerable number of people a mantra that has helped them persevere through all sorts of difficulties: I Think I Can!
When I first set out to find out more about the author of the children’s book first published by Platt & Munk in 1930, I expected to find a somewhat typical writer’s biography. Instead, I found a surprise. It turns out that Piper was Munk, and the story wasn’t exactly his original creation! Now, before you think he stole someone else’s classical children’s book, I need to emphasise that is not what happened. Instead, the story about Watty and the Engine fits in with the telling and re-telling of fairy tales that happens around the world every day.
A Fairy Tale Is Born
The story about the locomotive that discovers the power of positive thinking made famous by Watty Piper is nothing less than a modern fairy tale. Like most fairy tales, its original author or teller is unknown.
What we do know is that whoever first told or wrote down the story probably was inspired by an article in a Swedish journal published in 1902. The article included various phrases, such as the much repeated ‘I think I can’, that eventually made their way into several versions of the children’s book.
However, before any books were written, the Rev. Charles S. Wing published a sermon in the New York Tribune on the 8th of April 1906. The Story of the Engine That Thought It Could was included as part of the sermon. That same year, a shorter version of the story was published in Wellspring for Young People under the title, the Thinking One Can.
The Story’s Reappearance
The short form was reprinted in Foundation Stones of Success, a book published in 1910 – and, sure enough, the reprint inspired another version of the classical children’s book. Written by Mary C. Jacobs, the Pony Engine appeared in the Kindergarten Review.
20 years would pass before the Watty Piper book was published; ample time for a few new versions of the story by other writers. In 1916, Mabel C. Bragg wrote a new version that was also published as the Pony Engine, but she emphasised that she did not create the original story.
In 1920, a story titled the Little Engine That Could was included in the first volume of My Book House, a set that could be purchased from travelling salespeople. The first edition credited Bragg, but the text also indicated that the version included was retold by editor and publisher Olive Beaupré Miller. Later editions dropped the reference to Bragg, because Miller believed the story was a folktale.
The Watty Piper Story
Arnold Munk was born in Hungary, but he immigrated to the USA with his parents when he was a child. The family settled in Chicago, but the city would not keep the boy who would be later be responsible for one of the most popular classical children’s books. Munk eventually moved to New York and found office space on Fifth Avenue.
In 1930, Munk, the owner of Platt & Munk, published the first of his versions of the fairy tale, which he called the Little Engine That Could. He chose the penname Watty Piper, which he also used in his work as a book editor. Lois Lenski illustrated the book, and its title page stated that it was a retelling of Bragg’s 1930 Pony Engine.
Platt & Munk published a revised version of the children’s book in 1954. The new edition featured slightly different text, as well as new illustrations by George and Doris Hauman.
Munk passed away in 1957, but that was not going to be the last of the Little Engine. In 1976, a new edition featuring artwork by Ruth Sanderson was published. Sanderson’s illustrations are noteworthy because they featured distinct gender stereotypes that were common at the time. To this day, the story is still popular Children and adults alike, it is considered an important part of early childhood education, and “I Think I Can” remains a saying that just about everybody recognises.
In 2007, a survey resulted in the Little Engine That Could being included among the US’ National Education Association’s Teacher’s Top 100 Books for Children.
Frequently Asked Questions About Watty Piper and The Little Engine That Could:
Q: Is The Little Engine That Could a true folktale?
A: While its exact origin remains unknown, The Little Engine That Could is often considered a modern folktale due to its widespread adaptations and cultural resonance.
Q: How has the story evolved over the years?
A: Numerous authors and contributors have shaped the narrative, adding layers to its rich tapestry. The story’s endurance lies in its adaptability and ability to resonate with evolving generations.
Q: How did the character of the Little Blue Engine become an enduring symbol of determination?
A: The character’s unwavering resolve in the face of adversity resonates universally, making the Little Blue Engine an enduring symbol of determination and the power of a positive mindset.
Q: How have different illustrators contributed to the story’s visual narrative?
A: Over the years, various illustrators, including Lois Lenski, George and Doris Hauman, and Ruth Sanderson, have added their unique artistic interpretations, enriching the visual storytelling aspect of The Little Engine That Could.
Q: What age group is The Little Engine That Could for?
A: “The Little Engine That Could” is generally suitable for children in the preschool to early elementary school age range, typically around 3 to 8 years old. The simple storyline and positive message make it accessible to younger children, while the repetition and determination theme can resonate with slightly older kids as well.
“I think I can. I think I can. I think I can.”
Watty Piper
- Did You Know?
The iconic phrase “I Think I Can” has transcended the pages of the book to become a widely recognized saying? It embodies the essence of perseverance and positive thinking, resonating with people of all ages.
- Did You Know?
That Watty Piper’s choice of the pen name reflects a blending of his own identity and creativity? The fusion of “Watty” from his last name, Munk, and “Piper” as a nod to his work as a book editor, highlights the interconnectedness of his multifaceted role in bringing this beloved children’s tale to life.
- Did You Know?
The Little Engine That Could has been translated into numerous languages, spreading its message of determination and optimism to children around the world.
- Did You Know?
Watty Piper’s real name was Arnold Munk, and he was a successful publisher and editor before writing The Little Engine That Could. His experience in the publishing world helped him bring this timeless tale to life.
- Did You Know?
The Little Engine That Could was first published in 1930, and it has never been out of print since. Its enduring popularity makes it one of the most beloved children’s books of all time.
- Did You Know?
The story of The Little Engine That Could was inspired by earlier folk tales and stories, but Watty Piper’s version became the definitive and most famous telling, thanks to its engaging narrative and memorable illustrations.
Celebrating a Legacy of Inspiration and Hope
The legacy of The Little Engine That Could extends far beyond the pages of a children’s book. Watty Piper’s tale has become a symbol of hope and determination, reminding all that no matter the obstacles, the power of self-belief can carry us through. As we continue to share this story with future generations, we pass on not just a narrative but a life lesson that resonates with readers of all ages. This timeless beacon of resilience stands as a testament to the enduring influence of children’s literature on our hearts and minds, encouraging each of us to believe that, indeed, we can.
“When I was 6 years old, I remember very fondly, our class gathered around on the floor in front of the classroom of my favorite teacher, Miss Wood. She would sit on a chair in front of us and would read to us every day. I, at that age never gave much thought to learning about numbers and such… it was the stories that got my attention, and Miss Wood had quite a collection that she read. This story is particularly memorable – although it was only much later in my life that I understood the true meaning of the lesson behind the story. Back then, I just loved the story of the little blue train that never seemed to give up.”