Cry-Baby by Gelett Burgess (1900)
The story follows a young boy named Cry-Baby who cries at the slightest provocation. He lives with his mother and sister in a small town where he is constantly teased by other children for his tears. One day, Cry-Baby meets a girl named Mary Jane who is also different from the other kids. They become friends and eventually fall in love. However, their relationship is tested when Cry-Baby's tears cause him to be accused of a crime he did not commit. With the help of Mary Jane and his family, Cry-Baby must prove his innocence and overcome his fear of being different.
By Gelett Burgess · First published 1900 · Genre: Children's Literature, Poetry, Humor · 69 words
First lines
I'm sure that I would rather die Than have my playmates see me cry; It twists your face And knots your forehead, And makes you look all cross and horrid; And every one who sees you cries "What _is_ the matter with your eyes? "
What this Textopian page supports
Cry-Baby is listed on Textopian as a poem by Gelett Burgess, dated 1900 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Gelett Burgess
- Date: 1900 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Poetry, Humor
- Length: 69 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Cry-Baby by Gelett Burgess
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Cry-Baby?
- How does this poem by Gelett Burgess fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Children's Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Children's Literature — The content and style are suitable for a young audience, focusing on themes relevant to children.
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, employing rhyme and rhythm.
- Humor — The playful tone and exaggerated expressions suggest a humorous intent.
Tags
children's literature · poetry · humor · nostalgia · emotions · crying · childhood · illustrated · playful · whimsical · rhyme · imagination