Madeline (book)

Madeline
The cover to the original 1939 Madeline children's book.
AuthorLudwig Bemelmans
IllustratorLudwig Bemelmans
LanguageEnglish
GenreChildren's literature
PublisherViking Press
Publication date
1939
Publication placeUnited States
Media typePrint (hardcover and paperback)
Audiobook

Madeline is a 1939 book written and illustrated by Ludwig Bemelmans, the first in the book series of six, later expanded by the author's grandson to 17, which inspired the Madeline media franchise. Inspired by the life experiences of its author/illustrator, the book is considered one of the major classics of children's literature through the age range of 3 to 8 years old. The book is known for its rhyme scheme and colorful images of Paris, with an appeal to both children and adults.