10 Interesting Facts about 'The Little Prince' You May Not Know

Today marks the birthday of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the French author and aviator best known for his timeless classic, "The Little Prince." To celebrate his life and legacy, we've put together a list of 10 interesting facts about "The Little Prince" that you may not know.

1. "The Little Prince" was originally written and published in French in 1943, but it has since been translated into over 300 languages, making it one of the most translated books in history.
2. The book is a poetic and philosophical tale that explores themes of loneliness, friendship, love, and loss. It is often considered a children's book, but its themes and messages are universal and resonate with readers of all ages.
3. The book's protagonist, the Little Prince, is a curious and adventurous young boy who travels from planet to planet, encountering a variety of strange and interesting characters along the way.
4. The Little Prince's most famous quote, "All grown ups were once children...but few of them remember it" is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, connection, and love in our lives.
5. Saint-Exupéry was a pilot himself, and he drew on his experiences as a pilot to create the character of the Little Prince. The book is filled with imagery and metaphors related to flight, such as the Little Prince's journey through the stars and his encounters with various pilots and mechanics.
6. Saint-Exupéry wrote and illustrated the book himself, creating over 40 watercolour illustrations that bring the story to life. The illustrations are an integral part of the book's appeal and have helped to make it one of the most beloved children's books of all time.
7. The book has been adapted into numerous stage productions, films, and even an opera. It has also inspired countless works of art, music, and literature, proving its enduring influence and popularity.
8. The Little Prince has become a cultural icon and a symbol of hope, imagination, and wonder. His message of love and connection has resonated with people all over the world, making him one of the most beloved characters in literature.
9. Saint-Exupéry disappeared during a reconnaissance mission over the Mediterranean in 1944, and his body was never found. His death remains a mystery, but his legacy lives on through his writing and his enduring influence on literature and culture.
10. In 2018, a previously undiscovered drawing by Saint-Exupéry was found in a Swiss attic. The drawing, which depicts a scene from "The Little Prince," is believed to be one of the last drawings that Saint-Exupéry ever made before his death.

As we celebrate Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's birthday, let us remember the lasting impact of "The Little Prince" and its message of love, connection, and empathy.