The Adventures of Jimmy-Why

This book and its follow-up, Noël and Jimmy-Why by prolific New Brunswick author George Frederick Clarke represent Brunswick Press's first titles for children published without four-colour lithography. In both volumes, a young Jimmy-Why (so named for all the questions he asks) goes hunting and exploring in the woods with Noël, his Maliseet (Wolastoqi) friend and guide. In each story, Noël teaches Jimmy-Why lessons about wild animals and the beauty of the natural world. The character of Noël is based on Clarke's friend, Noël Polchies. 

There are seven stories in The Adventures of Jimmy-Why and fifteen realistic ink drawings, printed in sepia. Besides the title page illustration, there is a drawing before and after each story. In the book's acknowledgement, Clarke thanks several members of the Maliseet Nation (Wolastoqi) for their wisdom. In the foreword, he describes his deep love for nature, stating, "It is my fond hope that you who read these tales may not only take pleasure in his adventures, but also that you may understand more of the beauties of Nature." The book was dust-jacketed. 

Availability: Fair. Both Jimmy-Why books are held by UNB Libraries and are reasonably available through the New Brunswick Public Library Service, OCLC Libraries in Canada, and the used book trade.