It was with great sadness that we learned beloved English children’s author and illustrator, Shirley Hughes, died recently at the age of 94. Her contribution to the world of children’s literature cannot be underestimated and her chaotic, realistic scenes of everyday family life were enjoyed by generations. She began her career as an artist and illustrator but went on to create some of the most famous character’s in children’s picture books, including Dogger, Alfie, and Lucy and Tom.

Former UK Children’s Laureate, Michael Rosen, said of her in a tribute: ‘At the core of Shirley’s work is a child’s feeling, a child’s emotions. She spent her whole life taking this as seriously as many take adult feelings and emotions. This is part of what made her so special and so important’.

Below are some of our favourite Shirley Hughes books.

Dogger

This iconic story of a lost toy rediscovered at the town jumble sale and then lost again when someone buys it, is utterly wonderful.

Capturing all the distress of losing a beloved object, it resonates with children adults alike and has been crowned the most favourite Kate Greenaway Medal winner of all time.

You can see Shirley Hughes read Dogger online here.

Round the Garden: A First Collection of Nursery Rhymes

This classic collection of beautifully illustrated nursery rhymes from Shirley’s childhood will inspire a new generation to discover their own favourite rhymes - and sing them wherever they go.

Alfie at Nursery School

Alfie loves Nursery School - and so does Annie Rose!

She can’t wait to go there with him - in fact she’s so desperate to join in that she gets Alfie into a very sticky situation in this collection of nursery school tales.

Lucy and Tom: From One to Ten

One morning, very early … one little girl called Lucy fast asleep in bed, with one very special teddy tucked in beside her. Lucy’s little brother Tom is the first to wake up, and tugs at her quilt. Now there are two children, wide awake and ready for the day!

A story with numbers, as Lucy and Tom go through their day, exploring their world, counting, sharing and learning as they go.