Oliver Herford was an American humorist, poet, and illustrator who lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was known for his witty and whimsical writing style, which often featured anthropomorphic animals and playful puns.

Many of Herford’s stories can be found online, where they continue to entertain and delight readers today. One of his most popular collections of stories is “The Bashful Earthquake and Other Fables and Verses,” which includes a mix of humorous fables and nonsense verse.

In “The Bashful Earthquake,” Herford imagines what might happen if an earthquake were too shy to announce its presence. The fable tells the story of a timid earthquake who keeps trying to make its presence known, but is too nervous to do so until it finally musters up the courage to shake the ground and wake up the sleeping townspeople.

Another popular Herford story is “The Chimpanzee,” which tells the tale of a clever chimp who outwits his human captors and escapes from the circus. In this story, Herford cleverly flips the traditional power dynamic between humans and animals, showing that sometimes the animals are the ones in control.

Herford’s stories are often accompanied by his own illustrations, which add to the whimsical and playful nature of his writing. His work has influenced many other humorists and writers, and his stories continue to be enjoyed by readers of all ages.

Overall, Oliver Herford’s stories are a wonderful example of the power of humor and whimsy to capture the imagination and entertain readers. Whether you are looking for a good laugh or a bit of lighthearted fun, his stories are sure to delight.