Don't be Bad by Gelett Burgess
"Don't be Bad" by Gelett Burgess is a collection of humorous poems and stories that satirize human behavior and social norms. The book includes the famous poem "The Purple Cow," which pokes fun at the idea of searching for something that doesn't exist. Other notable works in the collection include "The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne" and "The Maxims of Methuselah."
By Gelett Burgess · First published 1905 · Genre: Children's Literature, Poetry, Moral Instruction · 38 words
First lines
Just as long as you dare to be, Because your mother doesn't see.
Do not wait for her to scold, But be just as good as gold!
What this Textopian page supports
Don't be Bad is listed on Textopian as a short story by Gelett Burgess, dated 1905 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Gelett Burgess
- Date: 1905 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Poetry, Moral Instruction
- Length: 38 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Don't be Bad 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 Don't be Bad?
- How does this short story 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 is directed towards children, with a focus on behavior and moral lessons.
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse, using rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Moral Instruction — The theme centers around teaching good behavior and moral values.
Tags
humor · satire · children's literature · poetry · illustrated · whimsical · moral lessons · fantasy · imagination · adventure · playfulness · creativity