Review of The Pogo Papers

Walt Kelly, 1953, The Pogo Papers, Simon and Schuster. Pogo is nominated for the job of President, and his friends try to hook him up with a first lady. Of course they have in mind mademoiselle Hepzibah, the gorgeous French lady skunk. <br><br>

Come to find out that Pogo doesn't want to marry anybody, and decides to become the curly-haired orphan girl (excuse me, gal) from the funny papers. He asks Beauregard to be the loyal dog. This is one of several times that Walt Kelly referenced Little Orphan Annie in the strip. There is always trouble, because both Annie and her dog have their eyes blunked out.<br><br>

The three bats, Bewitched, Bothered, and Bemildred, play a major role in this book. Here, they can be distinguished by their trousers. In some of the other books, two of them wear the same patterns on their pants, and this may be why they don't always know who they are.<br><br>

The scene shifts, uneasily, and folks are lost and found. Just in time for carol practice, which is sorely needed. A case of mistaken identity is followed up with a case of identity that is all too unmistakable. And this book includes my favorite single line from all of the Pogo books. Look for the name Jacksonville and you will find it. Near the end of the book a wildcat named Simple J. Malarkey is introduced. He bears an uncanny resemblance to Joe McCarthy. A great deal more hilarity ensues, and on the back cover you will find instructions for the book's disposal.<br><br>