The Story of Ferdinand has inspired, enchanted, and provoked readers ever since it was first published in 1936 for its message of nonviolence and pacifism. In WWII times, Adolf Hitler ordered the book burned in Nazi Germany, while Joseph Stalin, the leader of the Soviet Union, granted it privileged status as the only non-communist children’s book allowed in Poland.The preeminent leader of Indian nationalism and civil rights, Mahatma Gandhiwhose nonviolent and pacifistic practices went on to inspire Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr.even called it his favorite book.