Established in 1919 by visionary forces from the world of publishing, libraries and (really!) the Boy Scouts, Children’s Book Week is the oldest established celebration of literacy in the country. Administered since 1944 by the Children’s Book Council, the celebration features activities in libraries and bookstores and has been promoted over the years by a wide variety of posters and fliers created by some of the most talented graphic artists and children’s illustrators in the country. Because of the limited duration of each year’s events, most of these materials are regarded as ephemeral and are disposed of following the week’s proceedings.

This original 22 x 17” color poster by children’s author/illustrator Peter Burchard (Frederick Douglass, Lincoln and Slavery, Digger) is folded in quarters (for mailing) as issued, and is in Very Fine condition. An expert on the Civil War and black history, Burchard was also the author of the adult title, One Gallant Rush, the basis for the 1989 Oscar-winning film Glory. Two children in a back seat joyously hold their books aloft as a family rumbles down the road in an antique auto.