Crampton, Gertrude ; Tibor Gergely – Illustrator

Little Golden Picture Puzzle: Tootle [Early Golden Books Ephemera in Original Box]

New York: Simon and Schuster, 1946. Whitman Publishing No. 2991. Nine-piece interlocking board puzzle in original box. A remarkably vibrant mid-century survival of the iconic Little Golden Books locomotive, featuring the original two-part decorative box. This tactile companion piece to the classic 1945 book remains a cornerstone of post-war American juvenile ephemera.

KEY FEATURES
+++ Visuals: Full-color lithographed puzzle and box top featuring Tibor Gergely's classic 'Tootle' train illustration. 
+++ Binding: Original two-part heavy cardboard box; puzzle comprised of nine thick, interlocking board pieces. 
+++ Content: Depicts Tootle the locomotive in a playful landscape, reinforcing the themes of the 1945 story. 
+++ Associated Names: Gertrude Crampton (Author of the original text); Tibor Gergely (Illustrator). 

CONDITION: Very Good -- Puzzle pieces are complete with minimal wear and bright colors. The original box is vibrant with light shelf wear; three corners of the box lid are open/split, but the structural integrity remains sound and the graphics are crisp.
+++ Imprint: Simon and Schuster / Whitman Publishing Co., No. 2991. First Edition / First Printing of this puzzle format. 
+++ Specs: 6.5 by 8 inches [Complete with 9 pieces and 2 box components].

Gertrude Crampton and Tibor Gergely's 'Tootle' is one of the 'Big Three' original Little Golden Books, often cited as one of the all-time bestselling children's books. The character served as a gentle parable for the 'organization man' era, teaching children the importance of staying on the tracks and following the rules of the community.

While the books are ubiquitous, the 1946 'Picture Puzzle' adaptation is seldom seen in its original packaging. Produced by Whitman for Simon and Schuster, these puzzles were designed for heavy use by toddlers, making complete examples with the original box highly desirable for collectors of Golden Books and mid-century toy ephemera.

SUBJECTS: Trains, Adventure, Problem-Solving, Early Childhood Development, Children's Puzzle, Educational Toy, Mid-Century Americana.

Item #20749

Price: $75.00