a portable typewriter particularly adapted for juvenile use comprises a plurality of types , a plurality of key levers each of which has a key and arm , an universal plate actuated by any one of the poeration key levers , a carriage in which a platen is provided for supporting paper , a ribbon cartridge in which a typewriter ribbon is loaded , and ribbon cartridge actuating means connected to the universal plate and adapted to shift the typewriter ribbon cartridge in a direction parallel to the axis of the platen to a typing position and , at the same time , to advance the typewriter ribbon when one of the keys is operated . the cartridge actuating mechanism is arranged to be shiftable vertically independently of its movement parallel to the axis of the platen . the typewriter ribbon cartridge and the actuating means are adapted to easy manufacture , and to allow the extensive use of plastics in the construction .