I was chatting to a friend last weekend and she was telling me about how her little girl was having nightmares about their vacuum cleaner (she is frightened by the noise) when I had a sudden flash back to one of my favourite books when I was a child. Wow. It must have made a big impression – I could still picture some of the vivid illustrations after about 35yrs.
It was first published when I was one, so perhaps I got it for a first birthday present? Or maybe it was a best-seller in the 70s and I got it a couple of years later. I remember being a little scared of the vacuum cleaner but I can’t remember whether it was because of this book or the actual machine.
Regardless I could sympathise with little Ruby.
The blurb on the book is:
While recuperating from the mumps at the zoo keeper’s home, a penguin meets a strange animal called a vacuum cleaner.
It is such a charming story.
P.S. Just checked to see if I could find a copy and this small piece of nostalgia could set me back between $100-477!
Rupert Street Digest 
jules @ The Diversion Project
November 5, 2011
as someone who frequents st vinnies and other reputable second hand book dealers, i’ll keep an eye for a copy for you darl! xx
Jim
November 6, 2011
That penguin looked familiar. Do you remember Captain Pugwash? Just the eyes, I think. At that price, I should have kept all of my first books;)
Laura@RupertStreetDigest
November 9, 2011
Sure I remember Capt.P but only from ABC TV. He and his suspiciously named crew…
I have another post coming soon which might spark some new memories.
Thanks for finally subscribing btw Lx
Toni
November 16, 2011
Hi Laura!
I’ve completed my tasks….
Lots of lounging around reading novels and having weekly mini-facials.
That book looks adorable! Too bad you don’t still have it.
x
Laura@RupertStreetDigest
November 18, 2011
Hi Toni!
Yay, was just thinking about you. Good work with the treating yourself. Will be lovely to see you tomorrow,
Lx