The Tale of Peter Rabbit is a British children's book written and illustrated by Beatrix Potter.
This tale is about mischievous and disobedient young Peter Rabbit as he is chased about the garden of Mr. McGregor. He escapes and returns home to his mother, who puts him to bed after dosing him with tea.
The tale was written for five-year-old Noel Moore, son of Potter's former governess Annie Carter Moore, in 1893. It was revised and privately printed by Potter in 1901.
In 1902, the book was a success, and multiple reprints were issued in the years immediately following its debut. It has been translated into 36 languages, and with 45 million copies sold it is one of the best-selling books of all time.
Since its release the book has generated considerable merchandise for both children and adults, including toys, dishes, foods, clothing, and videos.