Written by: Penelope Wildwood

The Whimsical World of Wanda Gág: A Trailblazing Artist and Author

If there is one thing that Wanda Gág is most renowned for, it is her timeless and enchanting children's book, Millions of Cats, which has been delighting readers of all ages since its publication in 1928. This beloved book, deemed the oldest American picture book still in print, has solidified Gág's status as a pioneer in the world of children's literature and illustration.

A Life of Artistic Expression

Born on March 11, 1893, in the German-speaking community of New Ulm, Minnesota, Wanda Hazel Gág was the eldest of seven siblings. Her father, Anton Gág, an artist and photographer, instilled in her a love for art and encouraged her to pursue her creative passions. After his untimely passing when Wanda was just 15, she was advised by some to abandon her high school education to support her family. However, Wanda was determined to follow her dreams, and with the help of friends and a scholarship, she attended The Saint Paul School of Art in 1913 and 1914.

A Prolific Career

Gág's artistic talents blossomed, and she went on to attend The Minneapolis School of Art from 1914 to 1917. During this period, she honed her skills in printmaking, receiving international recognition and awards for her work. Her prolific career spanned multiple mediums, including illustration, writing, and translation. Gág's work was met with widespread critical acclaim, and two of her books received Newbery Honors, while two others received Caldecott Honors.

Literary Landmarks

In addition to Millions of Cats, Gág penned Growing Pains, a book of excerpts from her teenage diaries, which was praised by critics and readers alike. Her contributions to the world of children's literature have been celebrated by institutions such as The New York Public Library, which included Millions of Cats on its 2013 list of 100 Great Children's Books.

A Legacy of Wonder

Wanda Gág's remarkable life and work have left an indelible mark on the world of art and literature. Her imagination, creativity, and perseverance have inspired generations of artists, authors, and readers. As we gaze upon the whimsical illustrations and delightful stories that fill her books, we are reminded of the transformative power of art and the boundless imagination of this remarkable woman.

• Robbery Bobby in Mother Goose Land, an illustrated story published in The Minneapolis Journal's Junior Journal supplement when Gág was still a teenager, showcased her early talent and foreshadowed her future success.
• Gág's platonic relationship with University of Minnesota medical student Edgar T. Herrmann exposed her to new ideas in art, politics, and philosophy, further enriching her creative trajectory.

As we celebrate the life and legacy of Wanda Gág, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing our creative spirits and allowing our imaginations to soar. Her remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of art to inspire, uplift, and transform us, and we are forever grateful for the whimsical world she created for us to explore.