More of the Moomins

c1948; trans. by Elizabeth Portch

This third book in the Moomin series, Finn Family Moomintroll, was the first one translated which sparked the Moomin madness that resulted in their level of popularity outside of Finland.

It's also cheerier and lighter, funnier and full of more characters than the first two. The cover shows many of the new characters who became recurring elements of the Moomin stories. 

In this one, Moomintroll & Sniff find a top hat in the hills and take it home. Unknown to them, it's the Hobgoblin's magical hat, and has mysterious properties that will change whatever is inside of it. 

Hijinks ensue. Until of course the sensible Moominmamma comes up with a solution that suits them all. 

I really loved this one. The mellow nature of the Moomin household comes through; they welcome everyone who shows up, in a matter of fact way. Even little Thingumy & Bob, who steal Moominmamma's handbag for a brief spell. The wonderful Snufkin appears here, and the story has so many calm, teachable moments among the episodic effects of the Hobgoblin's hat. It's a delight, and one I'd definitely share with young readers who like weirdness of this sort. 

c1950; trans. by Thomas Warburton

Book 4, The Memoirs of Moominpappa (also known as Moominpappa's Memoirs and The Exploits of Moominpappa) details the years before Moominpappa met Moominmamma. He tells his life story to his family and friends in chapters about his childhood and his youthful adventures with Joxter and The Muddler (who just happen to be Snufkin and Sniff's absent fathers).

I found this one slightly less effective as it's a lot of telling, and recollection by Moominpappa, amongst the daily adventures of the younger crowd. In the previous book, things were continually happening. In this one, there is a lot of listening going on. 

It's still amusing, and it gives a stronger background to all of the characters that play a role in these stories. The Moomin world is fleshed out a little more, and we find out about some unexpected connections. 

This one has more adult appeal than kid appeal in some ways -- a little more philosophical, a bit more idea driven. It's also charming in the best surreal Jansson way.