26 September, 2011

A Favourite Book

I like to hang on to children's books that have impressed me.

The one I've chosen today, dates from 1971, and is called The Pedlar of Swaffham.  It's written by Kevin Crossley-Holland and illustrated by Margaret Gordon.  It's published by Macmillan.

The story in this book is based on an East Anglican folk tale set in the 15th century.

I love the illustrations!  They are influenced by the style of the woodcut, and are a perfect match for this medieval tale.
Margaret Gordon has illustrated two books similar to this one, The Green Children and The Callow Pit Coffer..
They were also written by Kevin Crossley-Holland

As well as the books I've mentioned, Margaret Gordon illustrated The Wombles written by Elizabeth Beresford.  The famous Wombles of Wimbledon.






16 September, 2011

A Well-Travelled Hippopotamus

There's a Hippopotamus on our Roof  Eating Cake is the first title of a series of books featuring a well- rounded and jovial hippo who has a sweet tooth.
These books have been popular for decades
Along with their English language editions, all of the hippo titles have now been translated into Chinese and published by Sichuan People's Publishing House. 
Available from 2011.


The cover looks very colourful.  I hope these books will be enjoyed by another generation of children!