Chapter 1
The birth of a little rabbit
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Chapter 2
The secrets of Dick Bruna's style
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Chapter 3
Miffy's family and friends
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Chapter 4
From Dutch coast to global icon
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YOUR GOAL
Master of The world of Miffy
Ch 1 · The birth of a little rabbit
b134340 During a rainy Egmond aan Zee holiday in 1955, Dick Bruna sketched the rabbit that became Miffy.
b134340 Bruna designed small, square books so toddlers could easily hold and control them.
Fun Fact
Miffy's name: The original Dutch name Nijntje is a cute shortening of 'konijntje,' which simply means little rabbit.
b134340 The original Dutch name was simplified to help international readers pronounce it easily.
Glossary
miffy (adjective)
Easily offended or touchy. In the 1955 debut book, an angel visits the expectant parents to announce this character's arrival.
Easily offended or touchy. In the 1955 debut book, an angel visits the expectant parents to announce this character's arrival.
Quiz
What specific shape did Dick Bruna choose for all his Miffy books to make them easy for toddlers to hold?
b134340 Dick Bruna standardized Miffy books to a square 15.5 cm format in 1959, making them feel like toys.
b134340 The original Dutch name 'Nijntje,' meaning 'little rabbit,' became 'Miffy' in English for easier pronunciation.
b134340 Miffy's stories use simple four-line verses, creating a predictable rhythm that boosts young children's literacy and memory.
Quiz
To whom was Dick Bruna telling stories about a rabbit when he first came up with Miffy?
Quiz
In which Dutch seaside town was Dick Bruna vacationing when he first sketched Miffy?
Quiz
The Dutch name 'Nijntje' is a shortened, affectionate child's word for which animal?