Uncle Wiggily and Bunty's Hat

Name: Uncle Wiggily and Bunty's Hat
Author: Howard R. Garis

Uncle Wiggily, a kindly elderly rabbit, promises to take Baby Bunty, a lively young rabbit girl, to buy a new hat after Nurse Jane Fuzzy Wuzzy is called away. Bunty is excited to shop with Uncle Wiggily and suggests visiting a store known for its unique hats. Uncle Wiggily, who suffers from rheumatism, agrees to accompany her but prefers to wait outside the store due to his stiff joints. As Bunty explores the store, she tries on various hats adorned with whimsical vegetable-themed decorations, such as carrots, radishes, and cabbage leaves. Each time she finds a new hat, she calls Uncle Wiggily inside to give his opinion. Despite his initial reluctance, Uncle Wiggily is drawn into the store repeatedly, hopping up and down the stairs to view Bunty's selections. The process of trying on numerous hats invigorates Uncle Wiggily, and he becomes more lively and energetic. Eventually, Bunty finds a hat she likes, and Uncle Wiggily, feeling rejuvenated from the exercise, treats them both to ice cream cones. The experience turns out to be enjoyable for Uncle Wiggily, who appreciates the unexpected liveliness brought on by the shopping adventure.

By Howard R. Garis · First published 1919 · Genre: Children's Literature, Animal Fiction, Fantasy · 1,092 words

First lines

Once upon a time Nurse Jane Fuzzy Wuzzy promised Baby Bunty, the little rabbit girl, who lived with Uncle Wiggily, to take her down to the fifteen and sixteen cent store to buy a new hat.

But at the last minute Nurse Jane had to go over to help Mrs. Wibblewobble, the duck lady, make sugar cookies.

What this Textopian page supports

Uncle Wiggily and Bunty's Hat is listed on Textopian as a short story by Howard R. Garis, dated 1919 CE.

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

Work type: Short story
Author: Howard R. Garis
Date: 1919 CE
Language: English
Genres: Children's Literature, Animal Fiction, Fantasy, Humor, Adventure
Length: 1,092 words
Structure: 1 section, 31 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Discussion starters

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Genres

Children's Literature — The narrative is whimsical and simple, directly appealing to a young audience with playful characters and adventures.
Animal Fiction — Characters are anthropomorphic animals, which is a defining element of the narrative and its charm.
Fantasy — The story includes imaginative elements such as talking animals and surreal shop adventures that depart from realistic settings.
Humor — The text uses absurd pricing, playful dialogue, and humorous mishaps to entertain readers.