John C. (John Conroy) Hutcheson
Teddy
The Story of a Little Pickle
"Teddy: The Story of a Little Pickle" by John Conran Hutcheson is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a spirited young boy named Teddy, who frequently finds himself in misadventures due to his independent and mischievous nature. The narrative captures the innocence and whimsicality of childhood through Teddy's escapades and interactions with various characters, including his nurse Mary and the friendly porter, Jupp. The opening of the story introduces Teddy at a railway station, where he is discovered by a porter named Jupp, who is puzzled by Teddy's request to "do d'an'ma," indicating his desire to see his grandmother. Teddy's self-assuredness immediately captivates Jupp, leading to a series of amusing dialogues between the two. The scene sets the tone for Teddy's character as a fearless, imaginative child who carries a small bundle containing his prized possessions—an array including a kitten. The unfolding events emphasize his innocence while hinting at the mischief and adventures he is likely to encounter, showcasing the playful charm that the story promises to deliver.