Miffy was a big part of my childhood. I had all the books and my mum even made a Miffy blankie that was carted around with me for years. This blanket eventually burned in a horrific accident when my mum hid it on top of a ceiling light. I think she wanted me to “lose” it for an evening so she could wash it. Unfortunately a small fire ensued and I would never snuggle Miffy again… sob.
Having not seen much of the Miffy brand over the last few years, it was a very welcome shock when I received an email asking me to be a Miffy Mum. Unbeknown to me, Miffy turns 60 (yes, 60) on June 21st this year. Amazingly, he was “born” all those years ago when Dutch artist Dick Bruna first drew the little white bunny to cheer up his young son on a rainy seaside holiday in Holland.
A good children’s character is timeless, and Miffy is certainly proof of that. Dick Bruna’s Miffy stories have now been refreshed for a new generation of Brits to enjoy, with brand new translations by award winning poet, Tony Mitton. Miffy’s makeover has taken two years to complete – the first time in nearly half a century the books have been changed. She is now a “thoroughly modern Miffy” with a whole set of classic collectable hardback storybooks, and paperback sticker and activity books.
Dexter was sent a selection of these to review, including Miffy’s Birthday. This is an adorable book written in rhyming verse, capturing the magic of Miffy’s big day. She pops on her best dress, and welcomes family and friends to her party. Grandma and Grandpa arrive last with an extra special present for Miffy!
The book is oversized making it perfect for sharing, and features the same beautifully rich iconic illustrations we’ve all come to love and enjoy. For babies especially, Miffy’s simple lines and the bright colours used, really help capture their imagination. Older children will enjoy the easy to read text and colourful pictures too, and (as evidenced by Dex below) she appeals to both boys and girls in equal measure.
It has a RRP £8.99 and is available from Waterstones and all good bookshops.
Heidi hasn’t been left out either and received this adorable soft rattle to play with. She hasn’t stopped shaking, banging and thrusting it in her brother’s face since it arrived, so it’s definitely a hit!
This is just one of the many adorable new newborn Miffy toys launched this year, making her finally accessible for babies. There are also dinnerware bits, aprons and traditional wooden featuring toys featuring her and her friends available from the official Miffy shop.
To help Miffy celebrate her 60th birthday, you can keep up to date with the latest events and special edition products by following her on Twitter and Facebook.
