The author of these much-quoted lines is William Blake, who painted and wrote his marvelous books nearly two hundred years ago. Inspired by Blake's work, Nancy Willard has written a book of magical poems about life at an imaginary inn, run by none other than William Blake himself.The inn is staffed by two mighty dragons that brew and bake, two angels that wash and shake the featherbeds, and a rabbit who shows visitors to their rooms. Among the remarkable guests are the Man in the Marmalade Hat, the King of Cats who writes his wife not to "grow fat like a common kitchen cat," and two sunflowers who demand a room with a view.The flawlessly crafted illustrations by Alice and Martin Provensen reflect their deep love for William Blake and the London in which he lived. Together, text and illustrations combine to create a once-in-a-lifetime book that will be cherished by readers of all ages.

Accolades

Winner of John Newbery Medal 1982.