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Michael Foreman was our Guest Editor in March 2010 - click here - to see the books that inspired his writing.
Michael Foreman was born in Suffolk in 1938, and studied at Lowestoft School of Art, St Martin’s, London, and the Royal College of Art, where he won a scholarship to the USA in 1963. He has worked as an Art Director at Playboy and King magazines and still works as Art Editor of the literary journal Ambit.
He has also made animated films in Scandinavia and for the BBC. His first book, The General, (a picture book published in 1961), dealt with disarmament and received rave reviews. Since then he has illustrated more than thirty of his own books and over a hundred by authors as varied as Shakespeare, J.M. Barrie, the Brothers Grimm and former Python, Terry Jones. He has established a reputation as one of the world’s leading illustrators and has won numerous prizes including the Smarties Prize, the Kate Greenaway Medal (twice), the Francis Williams Prize (twice) and the Aigle d’Argent at the Festival International du Livre in France. Michael is married and has three sons.
He spends most of his time in London, but regularly visits St Ives, Cornwall, where he owns the painter Ben Nicholson’s old house.
Click Here to download alot more information about Micheal and his books.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month October 2018 | | Based on the true American story from World War One the atmospheric illustrations and simple text of Stubby gives a moving insight into the horrors of the war as seen through the story of the exceptional contribution of a stray dog. When Stubby, a little dog with no home of his own, wanders into an army training camp he quickly becomes a much loved mascot for the young soldiers. Taken overseas to the battlefields, he shows incredible bravery and loyalty, including barking a warning to the soldiers when he can smell the deadly poisonous gas and alerting his soldiers to the presence of enemies. When peace is declared, Stubby is given his very own special coat with medals on it as a reward for his courage. On his return to the US with his soldiers friends Stubby is even taken to the White House to meet the President.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month May 2018 | Award-winning illustrator Michael Foreman’s own love of football suffuses this story which perfectly captures the thrill all footballers have of scoring the winning goal. As the new boy in a small local team a young boy dreams that one day he will be out on the pitch and will the strike the winning goal at the World Goal. Full of action and detail, Michael Foreman’s illustrations capture how his youthful dreams and reality merge to create a classic football story. Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for May 2018 Square by Mac Barnett A Skinful of Shadows by Frances Hardinge A Perfect Day by Lane Smith Gaspard the Fox by Zeb Soanes & James Mayhew Wonder Goal! by Michael Foreman The Sand Dog by Sarah Lean The Wizards of Once by Cressida Cowell Plantopedia by Adrienne Barman
The future of the world is in our children’s hands says this beautiful and sensitive picture book. ‘Let’s be doctors’ say two little children in front of a dressing up box. In their white coats they meet their first patient, the world, and he’s really not very well: too hot and sweaty, choked up with smoke and fumes. The children encourage him to think of the future, and to consider all the wonderful things he has, and they agree to look after him. The message is gently delivered in a way that will make children aware of their responsibility, but also their power to change things. Michael Foreman’s illustrations are eloquent as always, and glow with warmth and colour.
Award-winning author/illustrator Michael Foreman brilliantly releases everyone’s favourite characters from a story and turns them into a powerful new army which can stop the building of a new superstore and so save a very special bookshop. Led by Origami Girl, Puss in Boots, Alice and the White Rabbit, the Tin Man and Toad of Toad Hall storm the Houses of Parliament to persuade them to stop plans. When that doesn’t work, Origami Girl calls up reinforcements and soon Robin Hood, Long John Silver, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant and the Little Princess are squaring up to the bulldozers and diggers on the building site. Can the Origami army win? Michael Foreman celebrates the power of favourite characters to win over hearts and minds! ~ Julia Eccleshare
The future of the world is in our children’s hands says this beautiful and sensitive picture book. ‘Let’s be doctors’ say two little children in front of a dressing up box. In their white coats they meet their first patient, the world, and he’s really not very well: too hot and sweaty, choked up with smoke and fumes. The children encourage him to think of the future, and to consider all the wonderful things he has, and they agree to look after him. The message is gently delivered in a way that will make children aware of their responsibility, but also their power to change things. Michael Foreman’s illustrations are eloquent as always, and glow with warmth and colour. ~ Andrea Reece
Tufty the little duck grows up in the grounds of Buckingham Palace (his parents are very fond of the Royal Duck and Duckess (sic) who give the ducks their breakfast!). When winter comes, the duck family flies south but little Tufty gets lost as they navigate the city and is found by a homeless man who looks after him in in his den in a chestnut tree until it’s spring again. Tufty goes home but, when he falls in love, takes his new partner back to live with his old friend in the woods. Michael Foreman’s delicate pencil and watercolour illustrations make the grounds of Buckingham Palace, the glass towers of the city and the rich colours of the chestnut woods glow as brightly as Tufty’s feathers, and he fills this little story with drama and heart. ~ Andrea Reece
Michael Foreman was inspired to create his new picture book on a visit to the Dubai Book Fair, and Jamal the little camel’s journey ends in the shining towers and bright colourful market places of the city. But it begins in the desert as Jamal walks, walks, walks behind his mother and father and their Bedouin owners across the golden sand. There’s drama when a sandstorm blows up and he’s separated from the party, only to be found and saved by the falcon we spotted earlier on the traveller’s fist. This is a book rich in the sights and sensations of a faraway land, beautifully depicted in Michael Foreman’s glorious watercolours. Little Jamal is an irresistible character too, inviting the reader into his world from the first page.
Michael Foreman’s gentle story of an African boy making friends in a big city is filled with love and hope, and a sense that the power to make the world a better place is in our hands. Adam loves his new home but misses the faraway place where he used to live, so draws bright pictures of African animals and pins them to the wall. When it snows, he builds snow hippos, lions and an elephant, other children coming to help, and then when he starts school he and his new friends transform the landscape again, this time by planting flowers. A final beautiful image shows every balcony, pavement and roof in the grey city bristling with plants and greenery. The words are almost superfluous, Foreman’s watercolour images tell the story so beautifully. ~ Andrea Reece
Tufty the little duck grows up in the grounds of Buckingham Palace (his parents are very fond of the Royal Duck and Duckess (sic) who give the ducks their breakfast!). When winter comes, the duck family flies south but little Tufty gets lost as they navigate the city and is found by a homeless man who looks after him in in his den in a chestnut tree until it’s spring again. Tufty goes home but, when he falls in love, takes his new partner back to live with his old friend in the woods. Michael Foreman’s delicate pencil and watercolour illustrations make the grounds of Buckingham Palace, the glass towers of the city and the rich colours of the chestnut woods glow as brightly as Tufty’s feathers, and he fills this little story with drama and heart. ~ Andrea Reece
Julia Eccleshare's Pick of the Month, June 2015 Award-winning author/illustrator Michael Foreman brilliantly releases everyone’s favourite characters from a story and turns them into a powerful new army which can stop the building of a new superstore and so save a very special bookshop. Led by Origami Girl, Puss in Boots, Alice and the White Rabbit, the Tin Man and Toad of Toad Hall storm the Houses of Parliament to persuade them to stop plans. When that doesn’t work, Origami Girl calls up reinforcements and soon Robin Hood, Long John Silver, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant and the Little Princess are squaring up to the bulldozers and diggers on the building site. Can the Origami army win? Michael Foreman celebrates the power of favourite characters to win over hearts and minds! ~ Julia Eccleshare ......................................................... Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for June 2015 It's a Groovy World, Alfredo by Sean Taylor The Little Bookshop and the Origami Army by Michael Foreman Whistling in the Dark by Shirley Hughes The King's Shadow by Philip Womack
Cats and dogs fight, don’t they? Not in this touching story by award-winning Michael Foreman. When a mother cat gets swept off in the fish van her three little kittens worry about how they will manage on their own. But kind dog looks after them making sure they are warm and dry and well-fed. When the cat returns, her kittens tell her how good dog has been to them and a new family takes shape. Soon they are all off on a new adventure.
A tale of overcoming conflict and working together from the award-winning Michael Foreman.
Award-winning picture book creator, Michael Foreman celebrates the love between a father and child in this endearing bedtime story from this twice Kate Greenaway Medal Winner. Little Bear takes dad on a journey around all his favourite things and adventures and tells his dad that he loves him more than all the toys in his toy box, more than all the flowers of summer and the snowflakes in winter as well as all the grains of sand on the beach. A wonderfully heart-warming tale that little bears will go back to time and time again with or without their dad!
An evocative WW1 story of heroism and friendship, based on real events. Ali Pasha was a tortoise celebrity, appearing on Blue Peter and in newspapers worldwide, including The Times and The Boston Globe. Retold through journal entries and through Henry’s accounts to a young reporter, Ali’s story has stunning colour illustrations throughout.
One of our Books of the Year 2014 It was Christmas Day in the trenches in France during World War One and a remarkable football match took place. British and German soldiers put down their weapons and took up a game of football instead. For one day, the enemies are friends: they talk and play instead of fighting. But, the war isn’t over and next day they pick up their weapons and the lads from Suffolk are ordered to go over the top…An astonishing story beautifully told in words and pictures… Winner of the prestigious Smarties Prize, this unputdownable, yet at times harrowing story of a group of boys from Suffolk who sign up to fight in World War One is a classic. Written in memory of his Uncle who died during World War One this is probably the best children’s book for a youngster to read and begin to understand what his or her ancestors’ sacrificed their lives for to bring peace and prosperity to this country. It’s a masterpiece.Other titles in this series of books set in, around and after the two world wars of the 20th century by Michael Foreman include, After the War was Over, War Game, War Boy, Farm Boy and Billy the Kid. And a message from the author and illustrator, Michael Foreman: IN MEMORY OF MY UNCLES, WHO DIED IN THE GREAT WAR.WILLIAM JAMES FOREMAN, KILLED AGED 18FREDERICK BENJAMIN FOREMAN, KILLED AGED 20WILLIAM HENRY GODDARD, KILLED AGED 20LACY CHRISTMAS GODDARD, DIED OF WOUNDS CHRISTMAS DAY 1918 AGED 24 Two brothers walked out of my Grandfather’s little Suffolk cottage amongst the hollyhocks and went to War. Their names are on the village War Memorial. A third brother, my father, was too young to go with them. Two other young men, my mother’s brothers, left Granny’s Norfolk village pub and went to war. Their names are on another War Memorial. There are no photographs of these young men. They didn’t live long enough to have children. They left just four names amid a multitude. My father died one month before I was born … but, back then, all my friends were growing up without their fathers. They were all away in World War II. The only local men around were too old for this new War, but were still haunted by the ghosts of World War I. Soon, however, our village became full of men. Fathers and brothers from other lands, all on their way to war. They trained on our cliffs and beaches, camped in our woods and fields. They made a fuss of us – the last children they would see before hitting the beaches of occupied Europe. And so another multitude went off to war. As I write this, sitting in our London garden, there are hollyhocks standing to attention in the shade like the hollyhocks around Grandfather’s cottage. There are four of them.
Acclaimed children's author and illustrator Michael Foreman blends humour, sadness and romance in these irresistible retellings of classic stories that children will return to again and again. Dreamlike castles, mystical forests, inspiring heroes and terrifying villains are all brought to life in stunning watercolour illustrations full of vivid detail and enchantment.
Michael Foreman has chosen a magical mixture of stories and verses evoking the festive season for his beautifully presented Classic Christmas Tales. Magically brought to life with Michael’s stunning illustrations, this is a timeless book that can be shared with family and friends alike for many Christmas’s to come.
This wonderful fantasy tells how a group of mean-minded bullies are seen off by the feisty Origami Girl. When bullies try to steal Joey’s money from selling newspapers they find themselves in for a shock. Suddenly, Joey’s bag whisks into the air and his newspapers are transformed into the remarkable Origami Girl. Wonderfully original and exciting adventures follow as the two follow the bullies and win justice for Joey.
An evocative WW1 story of heroism and friendship, based on real events. Ali Pasha was a tortoise celebrity, appearing on Blue Peter and in newspapers worldwide, including The Times and The Boston Globe. Retold through journal entries and through Henry’s accounts to a young reporter, Ali’s story has stunning colour illustrations throughout.
Award-winning Michael Foreman puts an unlikely friendship at the heart of this captivating story of a cat and a fish who become such firm friends that the fish chooses friendship over freedom. Together the friends tour the world – especially the watery world - which is beautifully imagined in Michael Foreman’s vibrant and atmospheric illustrations.
February 2013 Debut of the Month A delightful series of detailed pictures tell the eco-tale of Frank the Superfrog who is determined to prevent the rubbish building up in his favourite pond. He bounds into action using a unique form of jet power, much to the amusement of the children in the story and no doubt to the readers themselves. Frank’s ‘gas’ becomes a formidable weapon in his mission to stop the pollution with impressive results.
September 2012 Book of the Month. This wonderful fantasy tells how a group of mean-minded bullies are seen off by the feisty Origami Girl. When bullies try to steal Joey’s money from selling newspapers they find themselves in for a shock. Suddenly, Joey’s bag whisks into the air and his newspapers are transformed into the remarkable Origami Girl. Wonderfully original and exciting adventures follow as the two follow the bullies and win justice for Joey.
Award-winning Michael Foreman puts an unlikely friendship at the heart of this captivating story of a cat and a fish who become such firm friends that the fish chooses friendship over freedom. Together the friends tour the world – especially the watery world - which is beautifully imagined in Michael Foreman’s vibrant and atmospheric illustrations.
Includes a chain of events as one young boy and a dog unwittingly unleash the greatest havoc imaginable. Full Lovereading4kids review to follow soon...
Best-selling illustrator Michael Foreman tells a dramatic and action-packed chain-of-events story of what happens when a boy meets a dog with a ball. Young readers will love the ‘if only’ refrain as the boy chases the dog, who chases the ball into some visually dramatic situations before reaching a gloriously satisfyingly ending.
A brother and sister spend their day playing on the beach by a rock pool. They create their own tiny marine world in a bucket and, with its wildlife, shells, oil and even a tin can, it is a microcosm of the larger world outside.
Prize-winning illustrator Michael Foreman sends an important message about taking care of our planet so that all the creatures that live in it can be kept safe in this stunning picture book. When a small boy wakes in the night he finds the street filled with all kinds of surprising animals. They bring direct information about the destruction of their homelands. With loveable illustrations and lilting rhythms, Michael Foreman has created a fun and beautiful book with a serious message. Everyone must take notice!
An awfully big adventure for the Littlest Dinosaur when a little walk turns into a night time drama. Alone in the middle of a big, dark forest the Littlest Dinosaur needs to be as brave as he can be. The he finds another little dinosaur, crying and afraid and he knows he has to get both of them to safety. Does he have the courage? A big-hearted and reassuring story about overcoming fear. Click here for the first title featuring the littlest dinosaur.
As relevant as when it was first published, Michael Foreman’s very first book is beautifully reissued in this 50th anniversary edition. General Jodpur loves to train his soldiers making them the best fighting force in the world. But, one day, he discovers the beauty of the countryside and realises that saving the flowers and trees and creatures who live in them is more important than fighting. An important message delivered in striking pictures.
Prize-winning illustrator Michael Foreman sends an important message about taking care of our planet so that all the creatures that live in it can be kept safe in this stunning picture book. When a small boy wakes in the night he finds the street filled with all kinds of surprising animals. They bring direct information about the destruction of their homelands. With loveable illustrations and lilting rhythms, Michael Foreman has created a fun and beautiful book with a serious message. Everyone must take notice!
A warm-hearted, beautifully told cat’s view of the Christmas story. The cat who lives in the manger is a cat with attitude, sometimes grumpy and often moaning but tonight it is looking forward to a quiet night with just the cows for company when some unexpected visitors turn up. The cat hates donkeys and it doesn’t like being tipped out of the manger but it soon becomes clear that something very wonderful is taking place that night. This beautiful, original and humorous take on the Nativity story is sure to become a Christmas classic. Its originality lies in the Christmas story being told from the perspective of a cat and very endearing it is too as the story of Christmas unfolds.
Brilliantly capturing the thrill of scoring a winning goal whether at schoolboy or international level, this is a book for all aspiring footballers to dream over. Michael Foreman’s stunning and atmospheric illustrations evoke football in general and the magic of the goal scoring moment in particular.
An awfully big adventure for the Littlest Dinosaur when a little walk turns into a night time drama. Alone in the middle of a big, dark forest the Littlest Dinosaur needs to be as brave as he can be. The he finds another little dinosaur, crying and afraid and he knows he has to get both of them to safety. Does he have the courage? A big-hearted and reassuring story about overcoming fear. Click here for the first title featuring the littlest dinosaur.
This is a wonderful celebration of optimism and a thoughtful and touching book about the importance of growth, green shoots and new life in a war torn world. Growing up amidst rubble a small boy tends a green shoot which grows into a flourishing vine that creeps along the barbed wire and unites divided children. All seems lost when the soldiers destroy the vine but as the seasons roll by new shoots grow, another child tends them and hope is regained.
A touching story about being different and not fitting in. The littlest dinosaur and the long necked dinosaur both find it hard to fit in because of their size. But when the littlest dinosaur needs help he turns to the only one he can think of. Big neck and the littlest dinosaur rescue all the other dinosaurs and learn to value being different. Click here to read all about the littlest dinosaur’s next adventure in The Littlest Dinosaur’s Big Adventure.
Michael Foreman makes history such fun and this book in particular is so inspirational. It tells the story of life after World War Two as soldiers return to begin life back home with families who have been without them for so long and of course some families whose loved ones did not return. Reading this book will make the reader realise how lucky we all are and interspersed with the story you’ll find out a little of how it affected the author’s family as well through photographs and captions throughout.Other titles in this series of books set in, around and after the two world wars of the 20th century by Michael Foreman include War Game, War Boy, Farm Boy and Billy the Kid.
It was Christmas Day in the trenches in France during World War One and a remarkable football match took place. British and German soldiers put down their weapons and took up a game of football instead. For one day, the enemies are friends: they talk and play instead of fighting. But, the war isn’t over and next day they pick up their weapons and the lads from Suffolk are ordered to go over the top…An astonishing story beautifully told in words and pictures… LoveReading adds: Winner of the prestigious Smarties Prize, this unputdownable, yet at times harrowing story of a group of boys from Suffolk who sign up to fight in World War One is a classic. Written in memory of his Uncle who died during World War One this is probably the best children’s book for a youngster to read and begin to understand what his or her ancestors’ sacrificed their lives for to bring peace and prosperity to this country. It’s a masterpiece.
A wonderful Christmas story that is both enchanting and heartwarming. Stunning illustrations by one of the UK’s foremost illustrators are complemented beautifully by some wonderful writing from him. The Little Reindeer is a real adventure with an original twist and young children will love it. It has also been made into a BAFTA winning film, and will be shown on ITV this Christmas.
A moving and beautiful book encompassing friendship and disability, highly commended for the Special Educational Needs Book Award. A boy and his grandfather watch as a baby seal is born on the rocks near their home and from that day a special bond is created between them. Despite his disability, the boy is a keen surfer, and he enjoys many afternoons surfing with the seals. One day, however, he gets into trouble in rough seas, and the young seal saves him.
A quirky, funny picture book story about a family visit to a safari park - Michael Foreman at his best! Norman is good little boy who never tells a lie. Honest. It’s just that sometimes his parents don’t believe him. Like the time they were all staying at the safari park and came back one evening to discover that their room had been wrecked. Norman said it was the wild animals who had made all the mess. But that couldn’t be right . . . or could it?
No wonder Michael Foreman is one of our foremost writer’s and illustrator’s for young children. Can’t Catch me is the perfect bedtime read as your young toddler will be taken on a delightful journey to all corners of the earth and even beyond before coming back to earth among his friends in the jungle for a tickle and bedtime. Brilliant.
Brilliantly observed in words and pictures, War Boy is a first hand, eye-witness view of growing up in World War Two. Michael Foreman grew up in Lowestoft where bombing raids causing terrible damage were common as planes flew in over the North Sea. But amid the real dangers, Foreman and his friends made the best of their extraordinary circumstances enjoying a childhood with many familiar ingredients such as playing loads of football and belonging to different gangs and many unfamiliar ones including spotting and identifying enemy planes, playing ping pong on Morrison shelters and making rude noises with their gas masks. Perfect for Reluctant Readers as well as keen readers. To view other titles we think are suitable for reluctant readers please click here. Love Reading adds: War Boy is a modern classic that combines a touching personal story with factual information and wonderful illustrations. Wartime is brought vividly to life and interweaved with plenty of Michael Foreman’s personal childhood memories including when the bomb came through the roof. Reading this is in unforgettable experience. Winner of the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal.Other titles in this series of books set in, around and after the two world wars of the 20th century by Michael Foreman include, After the War was Over, War Game, War Boy, Farm Boy and Billy the Kid.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month October 2018 | | Based on the true American story from World War One the atmospheric illustrations and simple text of Stubby gives a moving insight into the horrors of the war as seen through the story of the exceptional contribution of a stray dog. When Stubby, a little dog with no home of his own, wanders into an army training camp he quickly becomes a much loved mascot for the young soldiers. Taken overseas to the battlefields, he shows incredible bravery and loyalty, including barking a warning to the soldiers when he can smell the deadly poisonous gas and alerting his soldiers to the presence of enemies. When peace is declared, Stubby is given his very own special coat with medals on it as a reward for his courage. On his return to the US with his soldiers friends Stubby is even taken to the White House to meet the President.
When Granny leaves her umbrella behind, Mum asks Milo to take it to her. Along the way, Milo encounters pirates, dinosaurs and aliens as he is swept into a rather unexpected and truly amazing adventure...A Sunday Times Best Children's Books of the Year. 'Michael Foreman has a flair for turning a book into a special occasion.' Quentin Blake
Jamal is a little camel so he must walk, walk, walk through the desert. One day he becomes separated from his friend, the boy, but a wise falcon helps to reunite them. They go on to explore the city and its exciting sights and sounds. A modern tale of friendship and adventure from the twice Greenaway Award-winning author/illustrator, Michael Foreman.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month May 2018 | Award-winning illustrator Michael Foreman’s own love of football suffuses this story which perfectly captures the thrill all footballers have of scoring the winning goal. As the new boy in a small local team a young boy dreams that one day he will be out on the pitch and will the strike the winning goal at the World Goal. Full of action and detail, Michael Foreman’s illustrations capture how his youthful dreams and reality merge to create a classic football story. Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for May 2018 Square by Mac Barnett A Skinful of Shadows by Frances Hardinge A Perfect Day by Lane Smith Gaspard the Fox by Zeb Soanes & James Mayhew Wonder Goal! by Michael Foreman The Sand Dog by Sarah Lean The Wizards of Once by Cressida Cowell Plantopedia by Adrienne Barman
The future of the world is in our children’s hands says this beautiful and sensitive picture book. ‘Let’s be doctors’ say two little children in front of a dressing up box. In their white coats they meet their first patient, the world, and he’s really not very well: too hot and sweaty, choked up with smoke and fumes. The children encourage him to think of the future, and to consider all the wonderful things he has, and they agree to look after him. The message is gently delivered in a way that will make children aware of their responsibility, but also their power to change things. Michael Foreman’s illustrations are eloquent as always, and glow with warmth and colour.
So you may see, if you will look Through the windows of this book, Another child, far, far away, And in another garden play. First published to mark the collection's centenary year of 1985, A Child's Garden of Verses is now published in a beautiful, hardback gift format, with imitation cloth binding and head and tail bands. It includes a foreword by best-selling author Alexander McCall Smith.
The future of the world is in our children’s hands says this beautiful and sensitive picture book. ‘Let’s be doctors’ say two little children in front of a dressing up box. In their white coats they meet their first patient, the world, and he’s really not very well: too hot and sweaty, choked up with smoke and fumes. The children encourage him to think of the future, and to consider all the wonderful things he has, and they agree to look after him. The message is gently delivered in a way that will make children aware of their responsibility, but also their power to change things. Michael Foreman’s illustrations are eloquent as always, and glow with warmth and colour. ~ Andrea Reece
Tufty the little duck grows up in the grounds of Buckingham Palace (his parents are very fond of the Royal Duck and Duckess (sic) who give the ducks their breakfast!). When winter comes, the duck family flies south but little Tufty gets lost as they navigate the city and is found by a homeless man who looks after him in in his den in a chestnut tree until it’s spring again. Tufty goes home but, when he falls in love, takes his new partner back to live with his old friend in the woods. Michael Foreman’s delicate pencil and watercolour illustrations make the grounds of Buckingham Palace, the glass towers of the city and the rich colours of the chestnut woods glow as brightly as Tufty’s feathers, and he fills this little story with drama and heart. ~ Andrea Reece
Michael Foreman was inspired to create his new picture book on a visit to the Dubai Book Fair, and Jamal the little camel’s journey ends in the shining towers and bright colourful market places of the city. But it begins in the desert as Jamal walks, walks, walks behind his mother and father and their Bedouin owners across the golden sand. There’s drama when a sandstorm blows up and he’s separated from the party, only to be found and saved by the falcon we spotted earlier on the traveller’s fist. This is a book rich in the sights and sensations of a faraway land, beautifully depicted in Michael Foreman’s glorious watercolours. Little Jamal is an irresistible character too, inviting the reader into his world from the first page.
Michael Foreman’s gentle story of an African boy making friends in a big city is filled with love and hope, and a sense that the power to make the world a better place is in our hands. Adam loves his new home but misses the faraway place where he used to live, so draws bright pictures of African animals and pins them to the wall. When it snows, he builds snow hippos, lions and an elephant, other children coming to help, and then when he starts school he and his new friends transform the landscape again, this time by planting flowers. A final beautiful image shows every balcony, pavement and roof in the grey city bristling with plants and greenery. The words are almost superfluous, Foreman’s watercolour images tell the story so beautifully. ~ Andrea Reece
Award-winning author/illustrator Michael Foreman brilliantly releases everyone’s favourite characters from a story and turns them into a powerful new army which can stop the building of a new superstore and so save a very special bookshop. Led by Origami Girl, Puss in Boots, Alice and the White Rabbit, the Tin Man and Toad of Toad Hall storm the Houses of Parliament to persuade them to stop plans. When that doesn’t work, Origami Girl calls up reinforcements and soon Robin Hood, Long John Silver, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant and the Little Princess are squaring up to the bulldozers and diggers on the building site. Can the Origami army win? Michael Foreman celebrates the power of favourite characters to win over hearts and minds! ~ Julia Eccleshare
Thumbelina may only be the size of a thumb, but she is brimful of kindness and good nature. Stolen away in the middle of the night, she is forced to take refuge wherever she can find it. Slimy toads, mice and moles all offer her shelter, but it isn't always comfortable. Will she ever find a place that she can truly call her home? Enchanting storytelling and illustrations capture the magic of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale. TreeTops Greatest Stories offers children some of the worlds best-loved tales in a collection of timeless classics. Top children's authors and talented illustrators work together to bring to life our literary heritage for a new generation, engaging and delighting children. The books are carefully levelled, making it easy to match every child to the right book. Each book contains inside cover notes to help children explore the content, supporting their reading development. Teaching notes on Oxford Owl offer cross-curricular links and activities to support guided reading, writing, speaking and listening.
Tufty the little duck grows up in the grounds of Buckingham Palace (his parents are very fond of the Royal Duck and Duckess (sic) who give the ducks their breakfast!). When winter comes, the duck family flies south but little Tufty gets lost as they navigate the city and is found by a homeless man who looks after him in in his den in a chestnut tree until it’s spring again. Tufty goes home but, when he falls in love, takes his new partner back to live with his old friend in the woods. Michael Foreman’s delicate pencil and watercolour illustrations make the grounds of Buckingham Palace, the glass towers of the city and the rich colours of the chestnut woods glow as brightly as Tufty’s feathers, and he fills this little story with drama and heart. ~ Andrea Reece
When Cat is accidentally whisked away in a fish van, her kittens find themselves all alone. Left to fend for themselves they don't know how to survive, until an unlikely new friend comes along...an old dog who looks after them until mum returns.
Julia Eccleshare's Pick of the Month, June 2015 Award-winning author/illustrator Michael Foreman brilliantly releases everyone’s favourite characters from a story and turns them into a powerful new army which can stop the building of a new superstore and so save a very special bookshop. Led by Origami Girl, Puss in Boots, Alice and the White Rabbit, the Tin Man and Toad of Toad Hall storm the Houses of Parliament to persuade them to stop plans. When that doesn’t work, Origami Girl calls up reinforcements and soon Robin Hood, Long John Silver, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant and the Little Princess are squaring up to the bulldozers and diggers on the building site. Can the Origami army win? Michael Foreman celebrates the power of favourite characters to win over hearts and minds! ~ Julia Eccleshare ......................................................... Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for June 2015 It's a Groovy World, Alfredo by Sean Taylor The Little Bookshop and the Origami Army by Michael Foreman Whistling in the Dark by Shirley Hughes The King's Shadow by Philip Womack
Could a pair of socks help the Two Giants become friends again? Enthralling, warm-hearted and funny, this story about the transformative power of friendship is told by one of the world's leading author-illustrators, Michael Foreman. Two giants live in a part of the world where everything is perfect and they are the best of friends ... until they quarrel, that is. Then their beautiful world becomes dark and miserable. What will it take for them to become friends again? Could it be something to do with their prized socks? Originally published in 1967, this wonderful story returns in a beautiful new edition, with stunning artwork that has stood the test of time.
A powerful fable about friendship transforming the world from the award-winning and internationally best-selling illustrator Michael Foreman. A powerful and beautifully illustrated fable about friendship from the internationally-acclaimed and award-winning illustrator Michael Foreman, who is best known for classics like War Boy and for illustrating Michael Morpurgo's stories. In this moving story, Adam feels alone in his strange, new city. He misses the colours and friendships of his faraway home. But when a teacher at school gives him a few seeds, she plants an idea in him - an idea that could transform his grey world for ever.
An evocative WW1 story of heroism and friendship, based on real events. Ali Pasha was a tortoise celebrity, appearing on Blue Peter and in newspapers worldwide, including The Times and The Boston Globe. Retold through journal entries and through Henry’s accounts to a young reporter, Ali’s story has stunning colour illustrations throughout.
Cats and dogs fight, don’t they? Not in this touching story by award-winning Michael Foreman. When a mother cat gets swept off in the fish van her three little kittens worry about how they will manage on their own. But kind dog looks after them making sure they are warm and dry and well-fed. When the cat returns, her kittens tell her how good dog has been to them and a new family takes shape. Soon they are all off on a new adventure.
A tale of overcoming conflict and working together from the award-winning Michael Foreman.
Award-winning picture book creator, Michael Foreman celebrates the love between a father and child in this endearing bedtime story from this twice Kate Greenaway Medal Winner. Little Bear takes dad on a journey around all his favourite things and adventures and tells his dad that he loves him more than all the toys in his toy box, more than all the flowers of summer and the snowflakes in winter as well as all the grains of sand on the beach. A wonderfully heart-warming tale that little bears will go back to time and time again with or without their dad!
One of our Books of the Year 2014 It was Christmas Day in the trenches in France during World War One and a remarkable football match took place. British and German soldiers put down their weapons and took up a game of football instead. For one day, the enemies are friends: they talk and play instead of fighting. But, the war isn’t over and next day they pick up their weapons and the lads from Suffolk are ordered to go over the top…An astonishing story beautifully told in words and pictures… Winner of the prestigious Smarties Prize, this unputdownable, yet at times harrowing story of a group of boys from Suffolk who sign up to fight in World War One is a classic. Written in memory of his Uncle who died during World War One this is probably the best children’s book for a youngster to read and begin to understand what his or her ancestors’ sacrificed their lives for to bring peace and prosperity to this country. It’s a masterpiece.Other titles in this series of books set in, around and after the two world wars of the 20th century by Michael Foreman include, After the War was Over, War Game, War Boy, Farm Boy and Billy the Kid. And a message from the author and illustrator, Michael Foreman: IN MEMORY OF MY UNCLES, WHO DIED IN THE GREAT WAR.WILLIAM JAMES FOREMAN, KILLED AGED 18FREDERICK BENJAMIN FOREMAN, KILLED AGED 20WILLIAM HENRY GODDARD, KILLED AGED 20LACY CHRISTMAS GODDARD, DIED OF WOUNDS CHRISTMAS DAY 1918 AGED 24 Two brothers walked out of my Grandfather’s little Suffolk cottage amongst the hollyhocks and went to War. Their names are on the village War Memorial. A third brother, my father, was too young to go with them. Two other young men, my mother’s brothers, left Granny’s Norfolk village pub and went to war. Their names are on another War Memorial. There are no photographs of these young men. They didn’t live long enough to have children. They left just four names amid a multitude. My father died one month before I was born … but, back then, all my friends were growing up without their fathers. They were all away in World War II. The only local men around were too old for this new War, but were still haunted by the ghosts of World War I. Soon, however, our village became full of men. Fathers and brothers from other lands, all on their way to war. They trained on our cliffs and beaches, camped in our woods and fields. They made a fuss of us – the last children they would see before hitting the beaches of occupied Europe. And so another multitude went off to war. As I write this, sitting in our London garden, there are hollyhocks standing to attention in the shade like the hollyhocks around Grandfather’s cottage. There are four of them.
Superfrog is back on another urgent mission - rubbish from the big, grey city is polluting his pond! Once again it is up to everyone's favourite Superhero to save the day!
Little Bear doesn't want to go to sleep, so he tries everything he can think of to distract his father, and in the end it's an exhausted dad who falls asleep! 'Michael Foreman deserves all the applause he gets.' Independent
Michael Foreman has chosen a magical mixture of stories and verses evoking the festive season for his beautifully presented Classic Christmas Tales. Magically brought to life with Michael’s stunning illustrations, this is a timeless book that can be shared with family and friends alike for many Christmas’s to come.
Acclaimed children's author and illustrator Michael Foreman blends humour, sadness and romance in these irresistible retellings of classic stories that children will return to again and again. Dreamlike castles, mystical forests, inspiring heroes and terrifying villains are all brought to life in stunning watercolour illustrations full of vivid detail and enchantment.
This wonderful fantasy tells how a group of mean-minded bullies are seen off by the feisty Origami Girl. When bullies try to steal Joey’s money from selling newspapers they find themselves in for a shock. Suddenly, Joey’s bag whisks into the air and his newspapers are transformed into the remarkable Origami Girl. Wonderfully original and exciting adventures follow as the two follow the bullies and win justice for Joey.
An evocative WW1 story of heroism and friendship, based on real events. Ali Pasha was a tortoise celebrity, appearing on Blue Peter and in newspapers worldwide, including The Times and The Boston Globe. Retold through journal entries and through Henry’s accounts to a young reporter, Ali’s story has stunning colour illustrations throughout.
As relevant as when it was first published, Michael Foreman’s very first book is beautifully reissued in this edition. General Jodpur loves to train his soldiers making them the best fighting force in the world. But, one day, he discovers the beauty of the countryside and realises that saving the flowers and trees and creatures who live in them is more important than fighting. An important message delivered in striking pictures.
February 2013 Debut of the Month A delightful series of detailed pictures tell the eco-tale of Frank the Superfrog who is determined to prevent the rubbish building up in his favourite pond. He bounds into action using a unique form of jet power, much to the amusement of the children in the story and no doubt to the readers themselves. Frank’s ‘gas’ becomes a formidable weapon in his mission to stop the pollution with impressive results.
Award-winning Michael Foreman puts an unlikely friendship at the heart of this captivating story of a cat and a fish who become such firm friends that the fish chooses friendship over freedom. Together the friends tour the world – especially the watery world - which is beautifully imagined in Michael Foreman’s vibrant and atmospheric illustrations.
September 2012 Book of the Month. This wonderful fantasy tells how a group of mean-minded bullies are seen off by the feisty Origami Girl. When bullies try to steal Joey’s money from selling newspapers they find themselves in for a shock. Suddenly, Joey’s bag whisks into the air and his newspapers are transformed into the remarkable Origami Girl. Wonderfully original and exciting adventures follow as the two follow the bullies and win justice for Joey.
Includes a chain of events as one young boy and a dog unwittingly unleash the greatest havoc imaginable. Full Lovereading4kids review to follow soon...
Award-winning Michael Foreman puts an unlikely friendship at the heart of this captivating story of a cat and a fish who become such firm friends that the fish chooses friendship over freedom. Together the friends tour the world – especially the watery world - which is beautifully imagined in Michael Foreman’s vibrant and atmospheric illustrations.
Little Frank lives in Pond City, where life among the lilies couldn't be better ... during the day, that is. At night time the pond folk quiver in their slippery skins as slimy bug-eyed monsters emerge from the watery underworld. One night, their dastardly deeds go too far, and Little Frank decides enough is enough. Can he stop the creepy crooks once and for all?
Jack's grandfather tells tales so tall that the other children say they must be made up. Jack thinks they are too, until the night Grandfather takes him on an incredible trip in his boat - and then Jack doesn't know what to believe...
Master storyteller Michael Foreman has created a timely and moving story of a child creating a garden of hope in the midst of poverty and war. Master storyteller Michael Foreman has created a timely and moving story of a child creating a garden of hope in the midst of poverty and war. A boy's world is ruin and rubble, with a wire fence and soldiers separating him from the cool hills where his father used to take him as a small child. Can a tiny, green plant shoot give him hope in a bleak landscape?
As relevant as when it was first published, Michael Foreman’s very first book is beautifully reissued in this 50th anniversary edition. General Jodpur loves to train his soldiers making them the best fighting force in the world. But, one day, he discovers the beauty of the countryside and realises that saving the flowers and trees and creatures who live in them is more important than fighting. An important message delivered in striking pictures.
Brilliantly capturing the thrill of scoring a winning goal whether at schoolboy or international level, this is a book for all aspiring footballers to dream over. Michael Foreman’s stunning and atmospheric illustrations evoke football in general and the magic of the goal scoring moment in particular.
A touching story about being different and not fitting in. The littlest dinosaur and the long necked dinosaur both find it hard to fit in because of their size. But when the littlest dinosaur needs help he turns to the only one he can think of. Big neck and the littlest dinosaur rescue all the other dinosaurs and learn to value being different. Click here to read all about the littlest dinosaur’s next adventure in The Littlest Dinosaur’s Big Adventure.
This is a wonderful celebration of optimism and a thoughtful and touching book about the importance of growth, green shoots and new life in a war torn world. Growing up amidst rubble a small boy tends a green shoot which grows into a flourishing vine that creeps along the barbed wire and unites divided children. All seems lost when the soldiers destroy the vine but as the seasons roll by new shoots grow, another child tends them and hope is regained.
A story of hope and dreams set in a poverty-stricken community in South America, from a master children's book creator. Mia lives with her family in a small South American village beneath the snowy mountains. Their house is put together from the dumped rubbish of the city - it is not much of a place. One day Mia's father brings her a puppy, which she calls Poco because he's so small. When Poco runs away, Mia travels far up into the mountains to search for him. There she finds some white mountain flowers, growing under the stars, as well as something much more powerful - hope.
Michael Foreman makes history such fun and this book in particular is so inspirational. It tells the story of life after World War Two as soldiers return to begin life back home with families who have been without them for so long and of course some families whose loved ones did not return. Reading this book will make the reader realise how lucky we all are and interspersed with the story you’ll find out a little of how it affected the author’s family as well through photographs and captions throughout.Other titles in this series of books set in, around and after the two world wars of the 20th century by Michael Foreman include War Game, War Boy, Farm Boy and Billy the Kid.
A little monkey doesn't want to go to bed. He dances through the jungle chanting 'Can't Catch Me!' So of course all the other animals try to do just that. You have never heard such a hallooing, and hollering, not to mention wallumphing and grazumping! But the little monkey is much too quick for everyone - except his mum!
Brilliantly observed in words and pictures, War Boy is a first hand, eye-witness view of growing up in World War Two. Michael Foreman grew up in Lowestoft where bombing raids causing terrible damage were common as planes flew in over the North Sea. But amid the real dangers, Foreman and his friends made the best of their extraordinary circumstances enjoying a childhood with many familiar ingredients such as playing loads of football and belonging to different gangs and many unfamiliar ones including spotting and identifying enemy planes, playing ping pong on Morrison shelters and making rude noises with their gas masks. Perfect for Reluctant Readers as well as keen readers. To view other titles we think are suitable for reluctant readers please click here. Love Reading adds: War Boy is a modern classic that combines a touching personal story with factual information and wonderful illustrations. Wartime is brought vividly to life and interweaved with plenty of Michael Foreman’s personal childhood memories including when the bomb came through the roof. Reading this is in unforgettable experience. Winner of the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal.Other titles in this series of books set in, around and after the two world wars of the 20th century by Michael Foreman include, After the War was Over, War Game, War Boy, Farm Boy and Billy the Kid.
It was Christmas Day in the trenches in France during World War One and a remarkable football match took place. British and German soldiers put down their weapons and took up a game of football instead. For one day, the enemies are friends: they talk and play instead of fighting. But, the war isn’t over and next day they pick up their weapons and the lads from Suffolk are ordered to go over the top…An astonishing story beautifully told in words and pictures… LoveReading adds: Winner of the prestigious Smarties Prize, this unputdownable, yet at times harrowing story of a group of boys from Suffolk who sign up to fight in World War One is a classic. Written in memory of his Uncle who died during World War One this is probably the best children’s book for a youngster to read and begin to understand what his or her ancestors’ sacrificed their lives for to bring peace and prosperity to this country. It’s a masterpiece.
A wonderful Christmas story that is both enchanting and heartwarming. Stunning illustrations by one of the UK’s foremost illustrators are complemented beautifully by some wonderful writing from him. The Little Reindeer is a real adventure with an original twist and young children will love it. It has also been made into a BAFTA winning film, and will be shown on ITV this Christmas.
A moving and beautiful book encompassing friendship and disability, highly commended for the Special Educational Needs Book Award. A boy and his grandfather watch as a baby seal is born on the rocks near their home and from that day a special bond is created between them. Despite his disability, the boy is a keen surfer, and he enjoys many afternoons surfing with the seals. One day, however, he gets into trouble in rough seas, and the young seal saves him.
Summer in St. Ives is a good time for the stray cat. Visitors give him titbits to eat, and it is warm on his hill. Then, in autumn the tourists start to leave, and food is more difficult to come by. But winter is worse: it is a cold, lonely time - full of danger and constant hunger. Appetizing smells from the village drift up the hill, enticing him to risk the notice of the fierce village cats. And come Christmas, who will remember the cat on the hill? A family favourite throughout the year - and especially at Christmas.
This sumptuous volume contains over seventy of the best-loved, most exuberant action rhymes. Each is introduced and acted out by an appealing little bear and a colourful supporting cast of animals, humans and others! Join them for a dance round the mulberry bush, a walk through the jungle and a trip to the animal fair. Help them count ten fat sausages and five little piggies. Take your partners for the hokey-cokey and your place at the teddy bears' picnic. A section of notes at the back of the book gives information and diagrams on the actions that accompany the rhymes - so there's no excuse not to join in!
This volume contains over of the best-known and loved nursery rhymes. There are lullabies, action rhymes, nonsense verse, riddles and tongue-twisters. Each lavish double page has its own setting against which individual, thematically linked rhymes are illustrated. The artist has also introduced intriguing visual links from one scene to the next. Thus the Grand Old Duke of York goes up one side of a hill while, over the page, Jack and Jill tumble down the other side. This is a classic and hugely enjoyable nursery rhyme collection by one of the world's great picture book artists.
King Lion is sad because it has not rained in his country for too long, and now not ony will nothing grow, but also the land is too hard to dig. He decides to ask his rich (fat) neighbour for help. But he is mistaken for a beggar and a robber, and is pursued home by Fat King and his army ...and his supply trucks. The soldiers in their trucks are so heavy, that hey leave deep ruts in the land, and when it finally rains the land is well prepared for seeds. It's War, but not as we know it - or should that be Peace? Or even peas?!!
Then from somewhere, a football bounced across the frozen mud ...Freddie made a spectacular dive, caught the ball in both hands and threw it to a group of Germans. A moving and compelling story that takes four friends from the fields of Suffolk to France in the midst of the First World War Faced by the Germans and the appalling conditions in which they fight, their excitement and enthusiasm begins to fail. Then, one Christmas Day, an extraordinary thing happens. One by one, soldiers from both sides cautiously emerge from their trenches and put aside for a few hours the war that has made them enemies to play the historic game of football in No Man's Land.
Dinosaurs have taken over the Earth! They're stomping and stamping all over the place. Young readers will love finding out why in this classic environmental tale from best-selling author/illustrator Michael Foreman. A fable for our time, and as relevant today as it was when it was first published in 1972.
Michael Foreman woke up when an incendiary bomb dropped through the roof of his Lowestoft home. Luckily, it missed his bed by inches, bounced off the floor and exploded up the chimney. So begins Michael's fascinating, brilliantly illustrated tale of growing up on the Suffolk frontline during World War II. He tells how he and his friends and family coped with bombing raids and deadly doodlebugs, how gas masks were great for making rude noises, and how nothing could beat rabbit pie! ' ...vivid, humorous and touching' - Guardian .
When the Selfish Giant builds a high wall round his lovely garden to keep the children out, the North Wind blows, the Frost comes and the Snow dances through the trees. The Giant wonders why Spring never comes to his cold, white garden. Then one day the Giant looks out to see a most wonderful sight . . . Oscar Wilde's much-loved fairy-tale is brought to life again with beautiful illustrations by Michael Foreman and Freire Wright.
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