"'How pleasant to know Mr. Lear!' ¿Who has written such volumes of stuff! Some think him ill-tempered and queer, ¿But a few think him pleasant enough." -Edward Lear (1887) The Book of Nonsense (1887) by Edward Lear is a collection of 109 limericks that are considered among the immortal classics of English literature. These nonsense rhymes which were both written and illustrated by Edward Lear are uniquely inspired by whimsical creatures-both human and animal-and are as quirky and fun as they are rich in character. Although often classified as children's literature, they are universally enjoyed by adults as well.