France (the Baby's Baedeker)

Name: France (the Baby's Baedeker)
Author: Harry Graham

The book is a satirical guide to childcare, written from the perspective of a baby. It presents humorous and often absurd advice on how to care for infants, poking fun at traditional parenting practices and societal expectations surrounding childrearing. The tone is lighthearted and playful, with a focus on highlighting the challenges and frustrations that come with caring for young children.

By Harry Graham · First published 1908 · Genre: Humor, Travel, Poetry · 264 words

First lines

The natives here remark 'Mon Dieu! ' 'Que voulez-vous? ' 'Comment ca va? ' 'Sapristi! Par exemple! Un peu! ' 'Tiens donc! Mais qu'est-ce que c'est que ca? ' They shave one portion of their dogs, And live exclusively on frogs.

They get excited very quick, And crowds will gather before long If you should stand and wave your stick And shout, 'A bas le Presidong! ' Still more amusing would it be To say, 'Conspuez la Patrie!'

The French are so polite, you know, They take their hats off very well, And, should they tread upon your toe, Remark, 'Pardon, Mademoiselle! ' And you would gladly bear the pain To see them make that bow again.

What this Textopian page supports

France (the Baby's Baedeker) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1908 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Harry Graham
Date: 1908 CE
Language: English
Genres: Humor, Travel, Poetry, Cultural Commentary
Length: 264 words
Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for France (the Baby's Baedeker) by Harry Graham
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 France (the Baby's Baedeker)?
How does this poem by Harry Graham fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Humor first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Humor — The text employs wit and satire to describe French culture and behaviors, using playful language and humorous observations.
Travel — The content reflects observations and experiences related to French customs and society, akin to a travelogue.
Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter to convey its themes.
Cultural Commentary — The text offers insights and critiques on French societal norms and practices, reflecting cultural analysis.