Kafka and the Doll
by Larissa Theule and illustrated by Rebecca Green
“Kafka and the Doll” by Larissa Theule and illustrated by Rebecca Green. Published by Viking books. A charming picture book inspired by a true story portraying a remarkable gesture of kindness by none other than Franz Kafka, an iconic writer.
In the fall of 1923, Franz Kafka and Dora Diamant were out for a stroll at a park in Berlin. Carrying his lunch basket, Kafka was lost in thought about the book that he was struggling to finish and lunch of course. He was battling tuberculosis. He saw a little girl crying. Kafka was moved by her tears and struck a conversation with her. She mentioned that her name was Irma and she was crying because her doll Soupsy was lost.
Well, Kafka could have just uttered a few words of consolation and moved on. But he chose to bring some solace and closure to the girl’s distress by reassuring her that the doll wasn’t lost in reality. She had set out on an adventure and was travelling across the world right now as dolls like to do. She had written a letter to Irma. Kafka said that he was a volunteer postman and had forgotten to get the letter. He would get it the next day.
Thus began a series of letters from the doll to Irma. Written tactfully by Kafka of course! Irma would look forward to meeting him every day and reading the next letter that he would bring. Obviously this couldn’t go on forever. What did Kafka do about this? How did he convince Irma finally? Such a beautiful story this is. It shows a playful and compassionate side of Kafka that is so different apparently from his writing style. He is known for his dark and brooding tales. Though I haven’t read his works, have come across mentions of him in some of the books that I have read long back.
The illustrations are gorgeous and add a magical touch to the story. Unfortunately the little girl Irma couldn’t be traced when this incident was being documented for Kafka’s biography. So the original letters were never found. Highly possible that the little girl never survived the horrendous world war. Wonder if she ever realised who her postman was. Based on Dora Diamont’s recollection, the letters have been recreated albeit without Kafka’s touch. The story is a testament to living life to the fullest and the power of storytelling.
When Vidya Mani showed this book in one of the Funky Rainbow buzzaars, I was drawn towards the story and couldn’t resist buying the book :) Would highly recommend this to all children above the age of 5. And of course to all those who love picture books!!
Where to buy from?
An independent indie bookstore, Funky Rainbow, from where I buy many of my books.