The Original Bambi

A new, beautifully illustrated translation of Felix Saltens celebrated novel Bambithe original source of the beloved story Most of us think we know the story of Bambibut do we? The Original Bambi is an all-new, illustrated translation of a literary classic that presents the story as it was meant to be told. For decades, readers images of Bambi have been shaped by the 1942 Walt Disney filman idealized look at a fawn who represents natures innocencewhich was based on a 1928 English translation of a novel by the Austrian Jewish writer Felix Salten. This masterful new translation gives contemporary readers a fresh perspective on this moving allegorical tale and provides important details about its creator. Originally published in 1923, Saltens story is more somber than the adaptations that followed it. Life in the forest is dangerous and precarious, and Bambi learns important lessons about survival as he grows to become a strong, heroic stag. Jack Zipess introduction traces the history of the books reception and explores the tensions that Salten experienced in his own lifeas a hunter who also loved animals, and as an Austrian Jew who sought acceptance in Viennese society even as he faced persecution. With captivating drawings by award-winning artist Alenka Sottler, The Original Bambi captures the emotional impact and rich meanings of a celebrated story.