In the Night Kitchen is a whimsical and surreal children’s book that follows a young boy named Mickey as he dreams his way into a magical kitchen. There, he helps three bakers prepare the morning’s cake by diving into a giant bowl of batter. The story is filled with imaginative illustrations and playful text, celebrating the wonder of dreams and the limitless possibilities of a child’s imagination.
In the Night Kitchen has faced bans and challenges primarily due to its illustrations, which depict the protagonist, Mickey, naked throughout the story. The portrayal of nudity in a children’s book sparked controversy, with some parents and educators deeming the images inappropriate for young readers. Additionally, the surreal and somewhat unsettling nature of the story led to concerns about its suitability for children. As a result, the book has been removed from some libraries and schools, though it is also celebrated for its creativity and its place in the canon of children’s literature.
Publisher: Harper & Row, New York
Genre: Children’s Literature, Fantasy
Pages: Approximately 40 pages (varies by edition)
Binding: Hardcover
Dust Jacket Condition: Fine
Edition: 1st Edition