Books by Shirley Hughes

Book SynopsisThis gorgeous storybook is full of snapshots of family life, from breakfast to bedtime and from birthdays to walks in the park. All small children will be able to identify with Alfie and Annie Rose, two hugely appealing pre-schoolers who are constantly tackling new experiences and making new friends.Trade ReviewShirley Hughes is a national treasure -- Philip PullmanThere's just something so reassuring about Hughes' colourful drawings of the day-to-day activities that you know inside out . . . Words and pictures merge seamlessly . . . Hughes is a magical storyteller with an instinctive understanding of the mind of the pre-schooler . . . She makes the ordinary extraordinary * Guardian *I am reminded of something John Diamond wrote: 'This, here, now, is what happiness is. Enjoy it'. To me, the work of Shirley Hughes says something very similar -- Wendy Cope * Daily Telegraph *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review“You can almost smell the seasonal sugar and spice in Snow in the Garden: A First Book of Christmas from Shirley Hughes. Nobody captures the joy of each season, the way the light falls and the world looks at different times of the year, or the tiny details of family life, quite as well as Hughes. This collection of Christmas-themed stories, poems, recipes and craft ideas deserves to become as well-thumbed and covered in crumbs as all of her previous books.” * The Observer *“A glorious, gentle countdown to Christmas.” * The Times, Children’s Book of the Week *“A seasonal collection […] accompanied by beautiful illustrations.” * The Sunday Express *Everyone, no matter whether they are one or 101, should own a copy of this book to capture and then go on recapturing, year after year, the magic of Christmas. * The Good Web Guide *“It sums up Christmas beautifully.” * Picture Books Blogger *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAlfie and his mum and baby sister, Annie Rose, arrive home after shopping. While his mum struggles with the pushchair outside, Alfie rushes inside and slams the door behind him. So now Alfie's stuck INSIDE and his mum and Annie Rose are stuck OUTSIDE without a key! Soon everyone in the street is trying to help rescue Alfie - but he's got a plan of his own . . .Trade ReviewEnormously satisfying. * The Guardian *There's just something so reassuring about Hughes' colourful drawings of the day-to-day activities that you know inside out . . . Words and pictures merge seamlessly . . . Hughes is a magical storyteller with an instinctive understanding of the mind of the pre-schooler . . . She makes the ordinary extraordinary * Guardian *Shirley Hughes is a national treasure -- Philip PullmanText and artwork are both delightful and sympathetically balanced * British Book News *

Read more less

Book SynopsisIt's Christmas, and Lucy and Tom are getting ready! There are cards to make, a tree to decorate and presents to hide. And how can you get to sleep when Father Christmas may be coming? This classic picture book from the creator of Dogger is the perfect book for Christmas excitement.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAlfie and his best friend Bernard have a day out full of surprises when they go to meet a very great person indeed. What's more there are secret dens to explore, snowy skies, birthday fun and a very unexpected visitor on a special night-time trip! Join our little hero and his friends and family in a celebration of all things Alfie...Trade ReviewAlfie (30 years old this year) and his friend Bernard are undimmed by time, as is his dowdy, bespectacled, adorable mum. An enchanting book to read and read -- Amanda Craig * The Times *This book celebrates 30 years of Alfie, with a glorious collection filled with two brand new Alfie stories * South Wales Evening Post *Two new stories about the much loved pre-schooler. Ages 3+ -- Frances Perkins * Bournemouth Daily Echo *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAlfie is delighted to be invited to Bernard's birthday party, although he feels a bit nervous about going on his own. But Alfie has such a great time, he finds he doesn't even need his special blanket - and he makes a new friend too! Join Alfie as he overcomes his shyness and becomes the most helpful guest at the party.Trade ReviewThere's just something so reassuring about Hughes' colourful drawings of the day-to-day activities that you know inside out . . . Words and pictures merge seamlessly . . . Hughes is a magical storyteller with an instinctive understanding of the mind of the pre-schooler . . . She makes the ordinary extraordinary * Guardian *Shirley Hughes is a national treasure -- Philip PullmanHughes' perceptive eye captures the expressions and feelings of small children perfectly * Scotsman *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAlfie loves being outside and in this gorgeous collection of stories and poems he plays in the garden, camps in the countryside, shares a picnic on the beach, splashes in the paddling pool and lots more! Full of snapshots of family life, this is a book to treasure.Trade ReviewReading The Big Alfie Out of Doors Storybook is like wrapping you and your child in a big, soft, security blanket . . . In capturing the essence of early childhood . . . no other writer/illustrator comes near Shirley Hughes * Sunday Telegraph *An essential modern classic * Baby Magazine *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAlfie and Bernard are very best friends and together they have lots of adventures. Join them as they go to the library, take part in scooter races and make a very special club with only two special members!A heart-warming tale of friendship by the award-winning Shirley Hughes, creator of Dogger.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAll is quiet at Alfie's house - Mum and Dad have gone out and Maureen's baby-sitting. Then . . . drip, drip, drip. It's raining inside! The drip turns into a downpour and Maureen's parents have to come round to deal with the burst pipe, but only Alfie can work out what's worrying Annie Rose. . . . Join Alfie in this wonderfully warm celebration of brothers and sisters (and babysitters!).Trade ReviewShirley Hughes is the queen of creating picture books in which everyday events are described in an engaging and interesting way. Children will be delighted to watch the way things become more and more chaotic in Alfie's house as more and more water drips down from the ceiling * Through the Looking Galass *

Read more less

Book SynopsisSplish, splash, splosh! Alfie has new yellow boots that are perfect for walking through puddles and stamping in mud. There's something not quite right about them, though - they're making Alfie's feet turn outwards...Join Alfie as he works out what's wrong with his boots in this wonderfully splashy adventure.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAlfie gets out and about in the garden with Dad, in this glorious book about growing, playing and sharing. Seeds are planted; the carrots are going to be a gift for a special friend of Alfie's. But there are suprises in store...Shirley Hughes is the creator of the bestselling, best-loved, Dogger.Trade ReviewAlfie Outdoors is another classic and should be an immediate addition to every child's library -- Hannah Beckerman * The Huffington Post *Wonderful - a brand new Alfie book! Alfie is such an engaging character and he has captivated millions of children - and their parents - since his first appearance. Alfie loves to be out in the garden and now his Dad suggests they grow vegetables - to Alfie's surprise, they don't come straight from packs in the supermarket! Digging turns out to be great fun, with some unexpected surprises, but plants are quite slow to grow... As ever, a quite charming story with the added benefit of showing children the excitement of growing vegetables - and a very special goat to eat the produce! Alfie's Year in the Garden is an enchanting two page spread which gives lots to discuss about the changing seasons and the fun of being outdoors * Parents in Touch *A really gorgeous celebration of what children love about the outside world: getting muddy, making dens, playing and growing. * The Bookseller *Wonderfully well-written and filled with Shirley’s distinctive drawings, it’s another title to add to your expanding Alfie collection. -- Alison Potter * Junior Magazine *

Read more less

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.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAny old weather is Alfie weather and as Alfie demonstrates, there's always lots to do come rain or shine. wading through a cool stream on a hot summer's afternoon or taking a pretend journey to the North Pole, Alfie's world is a great place to be. This stunning collection of stories and poems will delight all Alfie fans!Trade ReviewThese stories make the perfect starting point for exploring weather with your own children -- Hilary White * Professional Child Care *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAnnie Rose and Alfie have lots of games they like to play together, like being scary monsters with Bernard, or running their own shop. But there are some things Annie Rose is too little to do and even some things Alfie would rather do without her. But if Annie Rose is ever sad or cross there is only one person who can make her feel better . . . her big brother. This is Shirley Hughes at her best - warm and wonderfully observed illustrations, and a touching text about the special bond between siblings.Trade ReviewThe perfect gift for a toddler * Prima Baby *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAlfie''s Nursery School is right next door to the Big School. Alfie wishes that he could be friends with the most popular big boy, Ian Barger, but Ian never takes any notice of the little kids.One morning, Mum takes Alfie to a Plant Pot Sale. Alfie hasn''t been there long when he spots Ian Barger screaming and yelling, I want my mummy!. Ian grabs Alfie''s hand and holds onto him very tightly until his mum returns. Alfie realizes that big boys don''t always act so big after all!Trade ReviewThere is something quintessentially comforting about Shirley Hughes' books * Sunday Telegraph *No-one tells a plain tale better than Shirley Hughes and her telling here is brilliantly complemented, as ever, by her stunning illustrations which are the product of a deeply compassionate and carefully sharp eye * The School Librarian *Hughes invites young readers into a world they will recognise and love, and shows that toughness is not everything * The Sunday Times *Shirley Hughes' beautifully observed - and exquisitely illustrated - books are a national treasure. In this latest Alfie adventure, our boy hero discovers that even big boys cry * Independent *This is one of those books that reaffirm - if reaffirmation is needed - the importance of picture books -- Chris Stephenson * Carousel *

Read more less

Book SynopsisShirley Hughes is one of the best known and most popular creators of children''s books, and her keen observation of family life have earned her a special place in the hearts of children and adults. This unique collection brings together some of her very best work and celebrates her amazing achievements over the years. There''s a wealth of treasure for children of all ages to enjoy, beginning with a selection of simple rhymes and stories and moving on to some of Shirley''s classic picture books featuring such well-loved favourites as Dogger, Alfie and Annie Rose. Enjoy stories from My Naughty Little Sister as well as a wealth of other characters. There''s also a selection of stories for older readers including The Lion and the Unicorn and Enchantment in the Garden, which combine satisfyingly longer texts with marvellously expansive pictures. Shirley Hughes'' warmth and versatility shine from every page of this stunning collection which will captivate readers of all ages anTrade ReviewAn author who needs no introduction, but what a joy to find so much of her work brought together in one superlative book. This really is a celebration of a remarkable author/illustrator and it's a book to cherish. The book is in four sections, according to age, so there are many many years of sheer joy to be had, from Mudlarks, on to Dogger, then Sea Singing and Enchantment in the Garden. Shirley Hughes' portrayal of family life and of children is timeless and has brought pleasure to so many, so this is a fitting celebration. The book illustrates the extraordinary versatility of this author who manages to create marvellous stories which enthrall all ages. The book is beautifully produced, with all the original illustrations and deserves pride of place in every child's library, and many adults will have fond memories of many of the stories and will delight in sharing them with their own children. * Parents In Touch *A little nostalgia never goes amiss at Christmas. So, if you remember Dogger, Alfie and Lucy and Tom, they are all here, in this vast collection. Ranging from early stories and rhymes to longer tales for older juniors, this lavishly illustrated collection makes a lovely family gift. * Carousel *

Read more less

Book SynopsisDown by the railway a white face looks out of a spooky old house, and Jim and Arthur hardly dare investigate.

Read more less

Book SynopsisMolly wished that they had a real garden, big enough to play in. Then one day, her wish came true! Mum and Dad told the children that they had found a house with a garden for them all to live in! Right away everyone began to make plans.

Read more less

Book SynopsisLucy and Tom are off for a very special day out at the seaside! But what should they do first?Join Lucy and Tom as they discover the seaside. From paddling to picnics, to sandcastles and ice cream - they discover everything the seaside has to offer.With gentle illustrations and easy-to-read text, Lucy and Tom at the Seaside is perfect for summer celebrations. Delighting children for generations, discover this soothing bedtime story.Loved Lucy and Tom at the Seaside? Discover: DoggerLucy and Tom at SchoolAlfie Gives a HandThe Lion and the UnicornTrade ReviewMeet Lucy and Tom, the creations of Shirley Hughes, illustrator extraordinaire, in her reissued story of everyday family life...wonderfully-observed illustrations remind us all of the fun. * Independent Bookshop Week Supplement *

Read more less

Book SynopsisMum is ill and Dad has to go to work, so Lily will have to go to Melanie's house for the day. Dad says she'll have lots of fun, but there's a problem: Lily doesn't want to go! Join Lily as she braves Melanie's house, and realises that doing new things needn't be scary after all...Trade ReviewHughes is such a phenomenon - this is as good as anything she's done * Observer *Hughes takes the simplest of themes . . . and gives it universal significance. Make that woman a dame! * Sunday Telegraph *Pre-school children will relate to this new story . . . For Hughes to produce yet another classic book is unquestionably a remarkable achievement for someone who first illustrated a children's book in 1953 * Books for Keeps *Shirley Hughes beautifully captures the little details and small moments of an insecure toddler's life . . . Hughes really understands the worries and fears of small children, she knows instinctively how to step back and observe the small details -- Niamh Sharkey * The Irish Times *Like Alfie, Lily is set to become a big favourite with the pre-school child -- Jack Ousbey * Carousel *

Read more less

Book SynopsisLucy and Tom know a lot of words: they have Books read to them at Bedtime. They know that D is for Dog, like the dogs that live on their street, F is for Friends, and P is for Park and for Playing. Join Lucy and Tom on a journey through their life, in this satisfying alphabet tale from master storyteller, Shirley Hughes.

Read more less

Book SynopsisJoin Alfie and Dad as they spend time together in this wonderful collection of stories from the award-winning Shirley Hughes. Alfie's dad is always there for Alfie and Annie Rose. He's there to reassure Alfie during a restless night; he's there to find Alfie's favourite toy Flumbo when he gets left on the bus; and most of all he loves spending time with his children and they love spending time with him! Celebrating that special relationship between children and their dads.Trade ReviewThat rare jewel, a brilliant "Dad" book... fabulous stuff as ever from Shirley Hughes. * Read it, Daddy *In the run-up to Shirley Hughes's 90th birthday, this volume assembles stories in which Alfie's father helps his son: by sharing weekend activities, checking under the bed for flying loobies, retrieving a toy from lost property, finding a wandering cat's real home. Hughes makes the domestic blissful. * The Sunday Times *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis 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. Parents and children can enjoy these rhymes all through the day: from walking to the park on a cold and frosty morning with Here we go round the mulberry bush or going to bed with Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. This collection is the perfect addition to any child''s bookshelf.Trade ReviewA definitive collection of nursery rhymes for the everyday moments in a child’s life. * The Bookseller *Containing Hughes’s favourite nursery rhymes, illustrated with her inimitable eye for domestic detail, this delightful anthology offers a glimpse into the artist’s own childhood inspirations. * The Daily Telegraph *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThis is a delightful book about firsts from the grande dame of picture books, Shirley Hughes, and an excellent gift for a toddler. All accompanied, of course, by her gorgeous, squeezable, kissable, chubby children. * The Times, Best Books of the Year 2019 *All Around Me: A First Book of Childhood brings together some of her earlier books for tinies, introducing counting and shapes and noises. * Spectator *

Read more less

Book SynopsisEverywhere Dave goes, his favourite toy, Dogger, is ALWAYS with him.So, when Dogger goes missing, Dave is devastated. Luckily, Dogger turns up at the school summer fair, but when he ends up at the toy stall, Dave must find a way to buy his best friend back.With a heart warming message and delightful illustrations, Dogger has delighted children for generations. This gentle bedtime story is perfect for young readers."For a blast of pure nostalgia, look no further than Dogger. This timeless classic tells the tale of the love a little boy, Dave, has for his teddy. The illustrations are wonderfully warm, and the language and turn of phrase is like a big hug in story form" - The Evening StandardLoved Dogger? Discover: Lucy and Tom at the SeasideLucy and Tom at SchoolAlfie Gives a HandThe Lion and the UnicornTrade ReviewThis is Hughes' most heartwarming picture book . . . Hughes has a kindly, inexhaustible eye - she misses nothing . . . Her drawing is invariably superb and usually describes a reassuring world for chidlren - sometimes happier-than-thou. She has illustrated more than 200 titles - she is a virtuoso * Observer *Shirley Hughes is a national treasureDelightful * Financial Times *A heart-warming story . . . Shirley Hughes' warm and deceptively simple story is a perennial favourite among children and experts alike * Psychologies Magazine *There are certain books that should be in every family's library and Dogger is certainly one of them * Books for Children *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA classic collection of first experiences for pre-schoolers, illustrated by the best-loved Kate Greenaway medal-winner, Shirley Hughes.In this beautifully illustrated book for first readers, little ones can find out about Olly and Katie''s very busy day learning new words and improving their vocabulary along the way. From getting dressed in the morning, heading out for a walk in the park or having a story before bath and bedtime, this simple, joyful book takes the reader through key points in a toddler''s day, with plenty of objects to spot and recognize in Shirley Hughes'' reassuring and charming pictures. Packed with evocative scenes from childhood and first words to spell out on each page, there is so much to see and do in Olly and Katie''s gentle pre-school world.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA lavish volume of heart-warming verse dedicated to one of Shirley Hughes''s most endearing characters - Alfie''s little sister, Annie Rose. The gentle rhymes and beautifully detailed illustrations capture all the wonder and excitement of a small child''s world. From tea-time treats to secret adventures, Shirley Hughes has a perfect understanding of the things that encapture a small child.

Read more less

Book SynopsisShirley Hughes illustrated more than 200 children's books and is one of the best-loved writers for children, known for her beloved classics including the Alfie and Annie Rose stories, and Dogger. Shirley Hughes was born in West Kirby, near Liverpool, in 1927, and studied fashion and dress design at Liverpool Art School, before continuing her studies at the Ruskin School of Drawing and Fine Art in Oxford. She started her career as a freelance illustrator in London, illustrating other writers' work, including Noel Streatfeild, Alison Uttley, Ian Seraillier and notably Dorothy Edwards's My Naughty Little Sister series.Shirley began to write and draw her own picture books when her children were young. Her first book - Lucy and Tom's Day - was published in 1960, and she followed it with, among others, Dogger, and the Alfie series. Her books include the wordless picture book Up and Up, collection of rhymes and poems Trade ReviewNo one can match Shirley Hughes in the simple mastery of both words and pictures * Times Educational Supplement *

Read more less

Book SynopsisShirley Hughes is one of the best-loved and most innovative creators of books for young children. She has written and illustrated over fifty books, which have sold more than eleven million copies. Her characters Alfie and Dogger are loved by children and parents all over the world.Bye Bye Birdie is Shirley Hughes'' first graphic book for adults. A young man, in his best bow-tie and boater, meets a fashionably dressed - and rather bird-like - young lady. But when he takes her home she undergoes a transformation and our hero''s dreams of connubial bliss suddenly turn into the stuff of nightmares.Totally wordless, Bye Bye Birdie showcases Shirley Hughes'' brilliant drawing and her extraordinarily vivid imagination.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisLegendary author Shirley Hughes draws on her young teenage memories for a compelling novel of friendship and mysteries set in Liverpool during the Blitz.Liverpool, 1940: Thirteen-year-old Joan's home is under constant threat from the Nazis' terrifying nightly air raids. Everyone is on edge, faced with strict food rationing, curfews, and blackouts. It’s not an easy time to be a teenager. Joan’s one solace is going to the movies with her best friend, the unflappable Doreen, but when the bombings intensify, even that becomes too dangerous. There’s also the matter of a strange man who Joan sees lurking near their home. Who is he, and why does he think Joan can help him? Even more unsettling, as the Blitz worsens, Joan and her friends make a discovery down by the old mill that will tear the whole community apart. In the hardship of war, everything seems to be rationed — except true friendship.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom beloved British storyteller Shirley Hughes comes a touching tale of unconditional love as a family puts itself back together in postwar London.Ruby and Mum cling to each other while they live through the terrifying London Blitz, waiting for Dad to come home from the war. Day after day they hope for his return — but when the moment to meet him at the station finally comes, Ruby hardly recognizes the tall man who steps off the train. He’s big and sunburned, and he doesn't seem to be as engaged as he once was. It’s easier to play outside in the wreckage of the bombings than to stay at home with a dad she doesn’t know anymore. But when Ruby hurts her knee in the ruins, there’s only one person who can rescue her and make her feel all right.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA gripping and moving novel by one of the world''s best-loved writers for children.From much-loved author Shirley Hughes comes a thrilling World War II novel for children aged 10 and up. It is 1944 and Florence, Italy, is occupied by Nazi German forces. The Italian resistance movement has not given up hope, though and neither have Paolo and his sister, Constanza. Both are desperate to fight the occupation, but what can two siblings do against a whole army with only a bicycle to help them? In extraordinary circumstances, people are capable of extraordinary thingsTrade ReviewThe mounting suspense will keep readers turning pages. An absorbing survival adventure and a solid fiction debut. * Booklist *a beautifully moving story * Irish Independent *A thrilling adventure. * The Good Book's Guide *Action packed. . . an excellent addition to our World War 2 novels. * Reading Chick *A thrilling Second World War novel for children by one of the world's best-loved writers. * The Bookseller Children's Buyer's Guide *Best-selling illustrator Shirley Hughes writes beautifully in this gripping story set during World War Two […] Shirley Hughes captures the thrill of this very important adventure. This beautifully jacketed edition has a linked website with historical details about the Second World War in Italy, including period photographs, videos and music, as well as interviews with the author, extra illustrations and much more. This is a wonderful first novel from the internationally revered writer Shirley Hughes; a modern classic in the making. -- Julia Ecceshare * Love Reading 4 Kids *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA delightful introduction to numbers from Shirley Hughes, one of the best-known and most-loved picture book creators.Learning how to count is fun and easy with Katie and her baby brother, Olly. Join them as they explore their friendly and familiar world and all it contains in this charming first numbers book. At home, at the beach or even at playgroup there''s always a chance to learn about numbers. Share and explore every wonderful experience in their simple yet enchanting world and let little readers learn how to count from 1 to 10.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA timeless story about friendship and understanding by the Kate Greenaway-winning author of Dogger. In this heartwarming Christmas story, by celebrated author Shirley Hughes, a young boy called Lewis Brown is looking out of a window and wishing that someone might notice him. Then he spots a single golden feather floating down from the heavens and discovers an angel on the roof. And so begins a great friendship, as the angel takes Lewis under his wing on an adventure that will change everything, and allow Lewis, his family and his friends, to start to see the world around them for the better.Trade Review“[…] an uplifting Christmas story brimming with hope.” * The Bookseller, Children’s Previews *In this exquisitely illustrated story Hughes, 92, best known for Dogger and the Alfie stories, is not pushing godliness down little throats, but reminding us that kindness goes a long way. We need her gentle parables, generous nudges and spiritual reflection more than ever this season. * The Times *A timeless story fit for the approaching season, and for these times. * The Sunday Times *This is one of the most lovely books we’ve read in a long time. Shirley Hughes’ trademark London is depicted perfectly. A reminder that small acts of kindness can travel a long way. Perfection. * Angels & Urchins *It would not be Christmas without a new tale from 92-year-old Shirley Hughes… a story that is touching but never soppy, with even the most celestial scenes brought down to earth by Hughes’s charmingly domestic illustrations. * The Daily Telegraph, Books of the Year - Children’s & Stocking Fillers *Angel on the Roof is a lovely Christmas book. * Spectator *This is a magical book… This is the most amazingly poignant story, illustrated by Shirley Hughes’s emotive images in blue and gold. A gift to treasure. * Juno *Shirley Hughes’ atmospheric new story about a deep and wonderful friendship is illustrated with verve and character in blue ink, adding her trademark warmth to a timeless story. * BookTrust *A timeless Christmas story about friendship, understanding and seeing the world for the better. * Muddy Stilettos, The Best Kids Books of the Year *There is something otherworldly and of another time to the simple blue illustrations on London rooftops and streets. And in the hands of master writer Hughes you'll find yourself welling up as the pages turn. This is the book to lift your Christmas. * The Big Issue, Books of the Year *A timeless and touching tale, with gold endpapers and delicate line drawings. * Daily Express *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA classic picture book about family life, set in post-war London, from the best-loved and award-winning Shirley Hughes now available in paperback.The observation and draughtsmanship are Hughes in her prime, with scenes of street parties and bustling stations and perfectly rendered period costume The Sunday TimesRuby and Mum have lived through the terrifying London Blitz and are waiting for Dad to come home from the war. Ruby hardly recognizes the tall man who steps off the train, but when she falls in the ruins nearby, there's only one person who she wants to rescue her.Trade Review“Set in the aftermath of the London Blitz and VE Day, Hughes takes an evocative look at the ruins of post-war London and the conflicts impact on family life. The relationship between Ruby and her father, newly returned from war, is particularly poignant and well-drawn.” * The Bookseller *“The observation and draughtsmanship are Hughes in her prime, with scenes of street parties and bustling stations and perfectly rendered period costume. Faces express uncertainty or affection, and the physicality of children is accurately captured as they climb, balance or reach for an embrace. Especially remarkable are the lovely, scumbled views of ruined houses, with their piles of bricks and staircases leading nowhere.” -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times *“Hughes’s familiar drawing brilliantly capture the gaiety of VE day street parties against the eerie aftermath of the Blitz. At ninety, Hughes is the grande dame of the British picture book - and this touching story showers her formula working at its best.” * Oldie *“Ruby in the Ruins is so rose-tinted you can smell the floral perfume: death is avoided, Dad shows no sign of trauma, Mum has not been radicalised in his absence. Yet it’s as comforting as a tea cosy and an ideal introduction to the war for delicate tinies.” - Alex O'Connell * The Times (Saturday Review) *“The book paints a wonderful picture of a child's life in post-war London, and celebrates the love of a family.” * Parents In Touch *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThe stories, originally published as picture books, are now in a paperback format perfect for first readers. Shirley Hughes' joyful illustrations are included in black and white. Stories on My Street is the kind of book you will want to add to your home library and to enjoy with family. * Kids Book Review *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA timeless and heart-warming story about friendship and understanding by the Kate Greenaway-winning author of Dogger.In this heart-warming Christmas story, by celebrated author Shirley Hughes, a young boy called Lewis Brown is looking out of a window and wishing that someone might notice him. Then he spots a single golden feather floating down from the heavens and discovers an angel on the roof. And so begins a great friendship, as the angel takes Lewis under his wing on an adventure that will change everything, and allow Lewis, his family and his friends, to start to see the world around them for the better.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated collection of first recipes and family stories by Kate-Greenaway winning author, Shirley Hughes.This classic collection of easy-to-follow recipes, inspired by everyday family adventures, is the perfect introduction to cookery for first readers. From making pancakes with Dad, baking apples after the Saturday shopping or even icing a birthday cake for Mum, this sumptuously illustrated recipe book gives a gentle insight into the joy of cooking together.Trade ReviewToddler-friendly, easy to follow recipes inspired by six stories about family life feature this cosy, nostalgic first guide to cooking. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *[…]this classic collection will continue to enchant parents and children. * Blackbird Pie *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated introduction to childhood concepts by beloved Kate Greenaway medal-winning illustrator.In this classic collection by Kate Greenaway-winning author, Shirley Hughes, Katie and her little brother Olly are having a wonderful time learning about the world around them. From counting in the park with Grandpa, waiting to cross the road with Mum, or even the very noisy sound of Dad vacuuming, there are so many first things to discover on their childhood adventures.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated collection of first recipes and family stories by Kate-Greenaway winning author, Shirley Hughes.This classic collection of easy-to-follow recipes, inspired by everyday family adventures, is the perfect introduction to cookery for very first readers. From making pancakes with Dad, baking apples after the Saturday shopping or even icing a birthday cake for Mum, this sumptuously illustrated recipe book gives a gentle insight into the joy of cooking together.

Read more less