Heinrich Hoffman's 1845 Struwwelpeter might beĀ classic German children's book, but it's not the kind of book you'd want to get anywhere near your own lovely little ones. That's because it's filled with horrific nightmares and gory tales of terror. In the tale above for example,
"The Story of Little Suck-a-Thumb" informs tots that A.) a vengeful tailor will lop off your appendages with hedge trimmers; and B.) your parents will shrug nonchalantly when it happens.
Read the rest of the scary stories at the link.
Link
I wonder how I survived all these books in my child hood staying sane, maybe I didn't...
She's also read the The Gashlycrumb Tinies.
A is for Amy who fell down the stairs.
B is for Basil assaulted by bears.
I love the Gashlycrumb Tinies and fully intend to share it should I ever have children - a little safe fear is good for you ;)