Kees Valkenstein

Born in Utrecht on October 2, 1862, Kees Valkenstein was the pen name of Cornelis Johannes Valkenstijn. He became known in the Netherlands as a writer of children’s books, and he was also active as an illustrator, sculptor, teacher, and journalist.

That mix of talents helps explain the charm of his work. He often illustrated his own stories, and his books show a fondness for adventure, odd inventions, and light comic fantasy. Titles by him have remained accessible through Dutch literary archives and Project Gutenberg, which has helped keep his work in circulation for new readers.

Valkenstein died on October 2, 1952. Remembered as a remarkably versatile cultural figure, he left behind not just stories for young readers, but a broader example of an artist who moved easily between writing, drawing, teaching, and local cultural life.