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Children's Laureate 2015-2017
One of the World Book Day 2015 Authors Chris Riddell was our Author and Illustrator of the Month in December 2010. Click here to find out more.
Chris Riddell, the 2015-2017 UK Children's Laureate, is an accomplished artist and the political cartoonist for the Observer. He has enjoyed great acclaim for his books for children. His books have won a number of major prizes, including the 2001 and 2004 CILIP Kate Greenaway Medals. Goth Girl and the Ghost of a Mouse won the Costa Children's Book Award 2013. His work for Macmillan includes the bestselling Goth Girl books, the Ottoline series, The Emperor of Absurdia, Wendel and the Robots and, with Paul Stewart, the Muddle Earth books, the Scavenger series and the Blobheads series. Chris lives in Brighton with his family.
Read more about Chris Riddell here.
Author photo © Tom Pilston Booktrust
Chris Riddell on John Tenniel : "Before I knew a thing about him, John Tenniel was a hero of mine, or rather, I should say, his white rabbit was. As a child I copied Tenniel’s illustrations from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland obsessively, particularly his drawing of the White Rabbit in waistcoat and frock coat, umbrella tucked under one arm and a pocket watch in paw, a look of suppressed panic in his eye. I loved analysing the shading, intricate lines of cross-hatching, the folds of the sleeve, the tilt of the head, that wide-eyed rabbit stare. Tenniel was one of the reasons I became an illustrator."
October 2019 Book of the Month | A new book by Chris Riddell is something to celebrate, especially one that gives his unique imagination free rein, as this does. There’s all sorts of trouble in the Kingdom of Thrynne: in the town of Troutwine, King Rat and his followers use threats of violence to extort money from its citizens; in the city of Nightingale, the Clockmaker’s sinister army of tin men enforces his tyrannical rule; and even in the village of Bream, deep in the Great Wood, the magical trees and the giants they shelter are in danger. In the very best tradition of fantasy adventures, three children and three bespoke enchanted objects are all that stand between magic and its destruction. The story positively crackles with invention and each chapter seems to introduce a wonderful new character before the storylines converge for a thrilling climax (fortunately one that leaves the door open for sequels). Fairytale adventure has never seemed so polished or ingenious. Young readers are spoiled for choice now when it comes to magical adventure, and readers of Guardians of Magic must also look out for Cressida Cowell’s Wizards of Once series.
Crazy inventions, mad robots and a stupendous battle! Wendel and the Robots is a very funny adventure full of crazy inventions and magnificent robots from award-winning author and illustrator Chris Riddell - with a subtle environmental message.
Best-selling Goth Girl is back for an action-packed new adventure in this stunningly produced volume by former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell which has the additional delight of a mini-book, Fable of a Faun, tucked into it. Lord Goth is turning Ghastly-Gorm Hall into the venue for Gothstock, a sensational music festival that will match his home. Naturally, Ada Goth is thrilled at the thought but will it all go to plan? In both words and pictures Chris Riddell creates an amazing cast of characters and the most original escapades in which they are all entangled.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2018 | Illustrator and author Chris Riddell has created a rich anthology of poems from the past to the present all of which have a special meaning for him. Grouping them under headings including ‘Musings’, ‘Youth’, ‘Imaginings’, ‘Nature’ and ‘Endings’ he has added an illustration to each often giving an insight into his own reading of it. Passages from Shakespeare and classic poems such as John Keats’s Ode to a Nightingale and Lewis Carroll’s Jabberwocky sit comfortably alongside contemporary poems such as Rachel Rooney’s The Language of Cat and Jackie Kay’s Something Rhymed while the inclusion of the words of Leonard Cohen’s Suzanne and Nick Cave’s Love Letter adds a refreshing fresh touch.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2018 | Former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell weaves a wonderful fantasy adventure around some of the best loved fairy story characters in this hugely attractive and thoroughly entertaining picture story book. Little Green Cape sets out with a handful of useful things including a strong straight stick, comfortable clumpy boots and an invitation to a party. Once in the wild woods she is in a magical world where even the trees have faces, full of surprising characters. There’s a Beast looking for his Beauty, three Bears who are mistrustful of strangers, a talking harp, three little pigs, seven dwarves and many more. Young readers will love both feeling they know the stories being surprised by some of the turns of events.
This is the fourth adventure for Ottoline and her best friend Mr Munroe, and it is every bit as enchanting, witty and surprising as the first. The emphasis is on friendship in this story: with her parents still roving the world for interesting items to add to their ever-growing collection of objects, Ottoline holds a dinner party. Guests include the dashing Purple Fox, a new friend, who has introduced Ottoline to some of the city’s most exciting inhabitants and hidden secrets. She’s able to repay him by drawing his attention to something lovely that he’s failed to see. Chris Riddell’s illustrations are as dazzling as ever; it’s worth lingering over every page to revel in the fluency of his line and to look out for the myriad little details. Ottoline is a delight for readers of all ages.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2017 Best-selling Goth Girl is back for an action-packed new adventure in this stunningly produced volume by former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell which has the additional delight of a mini-book, Fable of a Faun, tucked into it. Lord Goth is turning Ghastly-Gorm Hall into the venue for Gothstock, a sensational music festival that will match his home. Naturally, Ada Goth is thrilled at the thought but will it all go to plan? In both words and pictures Chris Riddell creates an amazing cast of characters and the most original escapades in which they are all entangled. ~ Julia Eccleshare Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for September 2017 Goth Girl and the Sinister Symphony by Chris Riddell A Skinful of Shadows by Frances Hardinge This Book Isn't Safe! by Colin Furze The Grotlyn by Benji Davies Billy and the Minpins by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake Toto: The Dog-Gone Amazing Story of The Wizard of Oz by Michael Morpurgo The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf Birthday Boy by David Baddiel
Opening Goth Girl and the Wuthering Fright is like opening a treasure box. With its gorgeous metallic edges and golden detail it certainly looks like one, and inside are riches! Chris Riddell seems to surpass himself with each new Goth Girl story, nearly every page features one or more illustrations, each one a small masterpiece of character and drama. As well as the visual invention and wit, there are literary jokes galore. While some of these may go over the heads of young readers, though they‘re likely to colour future readings of classic books, it doesn’t matter because there is so much in the plot to entertain. A host of authors and dogs arrive at Ghastly-Gorm Hall for Lord Goth’s Literary Dog Show, could one of these canine competitors be causing trouble? Ada and her friends investigate. A treat for readers of all ages, and don’t miss the cameo appearance by the author himself, aka Sir Christopher Riddle-of-the Sphinx RA, well-known illustrator of literary dog shows and founder of the Arts and Crufts movement. Sublime! ~ Andrea Reece
A beautiful illustrated record of Chris Riddell's time as the Children's Laureate 2015-2017 with cloth quarter binding, ribbon marker and beautiful end papers this truly is a book to treasure.
Award-winning author/ illustrator Chris Riddell has created a hilarious sequel to the much-loved Goth Girl and the Ghost of a Mouse and this time it has a topical theme. Ada lives in Ghastly-Gorm Hall, a place where magic rules and nothing is quite what it seems. The Ghastly-Gorm Garden Party is coming soon and the high spot will be the Ghastly-Gorm Bake Off. Celebrity chefs with some very remarkable magic tricks will be competing. But, when a group of vampires swoop down for some tasty action of their own, it looks as if all the plans will be scuppered. Luckily, Ada Goth is a very remarkable girl…Chris Riddell’s bake-off creations are sensationally realised in his wonderful illustrations. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Bestselling author/illustrator Chris Riddell creates a fantastical world in which Ada Goth, daughter of the strange Lord Goth of Ghastly-Gorm Hall, is growing up. Ada’s mother is dead and her father is very, very strange! Surrounded by a motley crew of servants and many ghosts, Ada’s life is lonely until she meets Ishmael, a ghostly mouse. Soon Ada and Ishmael are off on some very special adventures! Magic and invention pour forth in this splendidly entertaining story which is also packed full of jokes. Chris Riddell’s illustrations bring everything he imagines to life. Shortlisted for the 2015 CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal - Winner of the Costa Children's Book Award 2013
As 2017 dawns it’s hard to think of a better book to slip into your pocket than 100 Hugs by Chris Riddell. This neat little hardback contains 100 black and white illustrations by Riddell, a virtuoso of the form, and each one will amaze with its delicacy, skill and fluidity. There’s fun to be had in spotting characters – Pinocchio and Geppetto, Alice and the White Rabbit, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, the three little pigs – but the real joy comes just from enjoying the beauty and emotion packed into each drawing. It’s a book that will surprise and entertain no matter how many times it’s opened, and one that will leave readers feeling they too have been hugged. ~ Andrea Reece
One of our Books of the Year 2016 | This is the fourth adventure for Ottoline and her best friend Mr Munroe, and it is every bit as enchanting, witty and surprising as the first. The emphasis is on friendship in this story: with her parents still roving the world for interesting items to add to their ever-growing collection of objects, Ottoline holds a dinner party. Guests include the dashing Purple Fox, a new friend, who has introduced Ottoline to some of the city’s most exciting inhabitants and hidden secrets. She’s able to repay him by drawing his attention to something lovely that he’s failed to see. Chris Riddell’s illustrations are as dazzling as ever; it’s worth lingering over every page to revel in the fluency of his line and to look out for the myriad little details. Ottoline is a delight for readers of all ages.
Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell wants children to draw more – in fact he’d like them to do what he does and draw every day. This little book is a wonderful way to encourage us all to do just that. In it he suggests something to draw for every day of the year. Some suggestions are quite specific: draw a family member being attacked by a household appliance; illustrate the word sinister. There are ‘how to’ pages and some very useful and interesting tips, e.g. look at your drawing upside down or in a mirror to see if you’re distorting your pictures; and lots of fun story starters too. Chris Riddell’s enthusiasm for drawing shines through, and you can’t help but feel inspired and ready to take up your pencils. Put this in a stocking or under the tree and you’ll prompt a year’s worth if not a lifetime’s happy scribbling. ~ Andrea Reece
Put on your jingle-jangle socks, and prepare for adventure! Sumptuous illustrations tempt readers into the delightfully absurd world in which dinner is served before lunch and skyfish settle on umbrella trees. The young Emperor is a charming child with a hairy wardrobe monster as an advisor who sets off hunting dragons across a gloriously imagined landscape where anything fantastical can happen. A richly entertaining picture book from a uniquely talented artist at the height of his powers. Shortlisted for the Nestle Children's Award 2006 and for the incredibly prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal 2007. Judges' comment: Riddell makes glorious use of colour in this very interesting and engaging picture book, which despite being extraordinarily detailed is very easy to read. It cleverly gives the reader the impression of moving physically into its landscape, and works on lots of different levels as it turns reality completely on its head. The composition of each page is always well-thought out, and the technique of using small pictures at certain points makes the reader slow down and study carefully. The ambiguous ending stays with you, and allows you to take pleasure from the book over and over again.
Crazy inventions, mad robots and a stupendous battle! Wendel and the Robots is a very funny adventure full of crazy inventions and magnificent robots from award-winning author and illustrator Chris Riddell - with a subtle environmental message. Available in mini hardback edition, it's a perfect gift and an ideal stocking filler.
One of our Books of the Year 2015 - October 2015 Book of the Month Opening Goth Girl and the Wuthering Fright is like opening a treasure box. With its gorgeous metallic edges and golden detail it certainly looks like one, and inside are riches! Chris Riddell seems to surpass himself with each new Goth Girl story, nearly every page features one or more illustrations, each one a small masterpiece of character and drama. As well as the visual invention and wit, there are literary jokes galore. While some of these may go over the heads of young readers, though they‘re likely to colour future readings of classic books, it doesn’t matter because there is so much in the plot to entertain. A host of authors and dogs arrive at Ghastly-Gorm Hall for Lord Goth’s Literary Dog Show, could one of these canine competitors be causing trouble? Ada and her friends investigate. A treat for readers of all ages, and don’t miss the cameo appearance by the author himself, aka Sir Christopher Riddle-of-the Sphinx RA, well-known illustrator of literary dog shows and founder of the Arts and Crufts movement. Sublime! ~ Andrea Reece
Chris Riddell Children's Laureate 2015-2017 Award winning author/ illustrator Chris Riddell weaves another fantastical story about Ottoline and her very special and very hairy friend, Mr. Munroe. Ottoline and Mr. Munroe love solving tricky problems and working out clever plans; they love putting on disguises and travelling across enormous spaces. When Mr. Munroe disappears leaving a clue to his whereabouts written in string wrapped around the sofa, Ottoline has to travel over and under the sea equipped with her Amateur Roving Collectors’ travel pass to find him. Brilliantly told in words and pictures this is a captivating adventure, irresistible to follow. Shortlisted for the prestigious Sheffield Children's Book Award 2011
The first book in Chris Riddell's much-loved Ottoline series. Now in paperback for the first time. A glorious adventure fantasy told in words and loads of Chris Riddell’s fabulous pictures, this tells how Ottoline, who loves solving puzzles, and her friend Mr Munro, a cat with a distinct personality and a number of foibles, set out to resolve the mystery of the lapdogs who are being stolen from all over town. A beautiful book to read or even just to hold. Shortlisted for the prestigious 2008 Kate Greenaway Medal. Winner of the 2007 Nestle Children's Book Prize Gold Award (6-8 category)
A wonderful quirky mystery adventure that follows the story of Miss Ottoline Brown, the inquisitive Mistress of Disguise, and her partner in crime, her hairy and helpful friend, Mr Munroe, first introduced in Ottoline and the Yellow Cat. No secret is ever too scary (eventhough the school is more than a bit scary for Munroe) for the two of them to discover together as well as puzzles to solve. Riddell’s sumptuous illustrations interspersed throughout the text make this ideal for 7-9 year olds as well as younger children whose parents want to read it with their child. It really is a beautiful production of a book – something to truly treasure and return to in years to come. A classic is born. Now available in paperback for the first time. Shortlisted for the prestigious Sheffield Children's Book Award 2009
Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Award 2015 Best Story - October 2014 Book of the Month Award-winning author/ illustrator Chris Riddell has created a hilarious sequel to the much-loved Goth Girl and the Ghost of a Mouse and this time it has a topical theme. Ada lives in Ghastly-Gorm Hall, a place where magic rules and nothing is quite what it seems. The Ghastly-Gorm Garden Party is coming soon and the high spot will be the Ghastly-Gorm Bake Off. Celebrity chefs with some very remarkable magic tricks will be competing. But, when a group of vampires swoop down for some tasty action of their own, it looks as if all the plans will be scuppered. Luckily, Ada Goth is a very remarkable girl…Chris Riddell’s bake-off creations are sensationally realised in his wonderful illustrations. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Shortlisted for the 2015 CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal - Winner of the Costa Children's Book Award 2013 Bestselling author/illustrator Chris Riddell creates a fantastical world in which Ada Goth, daughter of the strange Lord Goth of Ghastly-Gorm Hall, is growing up. Ada’s mother is dead and her father is very, very strange! Surrounded by a motley crew of servants and many ghosts, Ada’s life is lonely until she meets Ishmael, a ghostly mouse. Soon Ada and Ishmael are off on some very special adventures! Magic and invention pour forth in this splendidly entertaining story which is also packed full of jokes. Chris Riddell’s illustrations bring everything he imagines to life. _______________________ The Costa Book Awards honour some of the most outstanding books of the year written by authors based in the UK and Ireland. The full shortlist for the Children's Book Award is... Alex, the Dog and the Unopenable Door by Ross Montgomery. The Hanged Man Rises by Sarah Naughton Goth Girl: and the Ghost of a Mouse by Chris Riddell Rose Under Fire by Elizabeth Wein Keep up to date with the Costa Book Awards @CostaBookAwards
When Jim kindly allows Mr Underbed to sleep in his bed he is unprepared for all the other night-time visitors who want to share it too!
STOP PRESS: You have probably seen the Christmas TV ad for Moz the Monster. It looks to us as though the inspiration for it may well have come from Chris Riddell's debut picture book which was published a number of years ago. Let us know what you think through Lovereading4kids Facebook or via Twitter. It's a wonderful picture book and one of the best bedtime reads you can imagine. You can also read an extract right here to see for yourself just how good it is or indeed whether you think Mr Underbed has any similarities at all to Moz. Award-winning Chris Riddell tells a witty and inventive story that is perfect for bedtime. When Mr Underbed pops up from under Jim’s bed asking for somewhere more comfortable to sleep, Jim offers him some space. But soon Jim finds he has a bed-full of new arrivals – and nowhere for himself! Chris Riddell’s original characters are a delight.
Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Award 2011: Most Fun Story with Pictures* Prize-winning illustrator/ author Chris Riddell has created a fabulous cast of strange creatures and the unusual antics they get up to in a brilliantly imagined and conceived world. Subtitled How to Spot an Alien Invasion, Alienography is both a comprehensive guide to the world of UFOs and a number of deliciously inventive stories about everything that may – or may not – happen in outer space. Descriptions of carnivorous plants such as The Terrifids or the Gums, alien Stealth Invaders who closely resemble discarded chewing gum are hilarious and perfectly matched by grotesque and amazingly diverse illustrations. There are hours and hours of delight to be had from this outstandingly creative and superbly produced volume. Here is a list of all the other shortlisted books for the 2011 Blue Peter Book Awards: Best Book with Facts: Do Igloos Have Loos? - Mitchell Symons How the World Works - Christiane Dorion What You Need To Know Now: The World in Facts, Stats, and Graphics - Joe Fullman, Ian Graham, Sally Regan and Isabel Thomas Most Fun Story with Pictures: Alienography - Chris Riddell Mr Gum and the Cherry Tree - Andy Stanton Lunatics and Luck (The Raven Mysteries) - Marcus Sedgwick Favourite Stories: Dead Man's Cove (A Laura Marlin Mystery) - Lauren St John A Web of Air (Mortal Engines) - Philip Reeve Tall Story - Candy Gourlay
Shortlisted for the prestigious Sheffield Children's Book Award 2011 Award winning author/ illustrator Chris Riddell weaves another fantastical story about Ottoline and her very special and very hairy friend, Mr. Munroe. Ottoline and Mr. Munroe love solving tricky problems and working out clever plans; they love putting on disguises and travelling across enormous spaces. When Mr. Munroe disappears leaving a clue to his whereabouts written in string wrapped around the sofa, Ottoline has to travel over and under the sea equipped with her Amateur Roving Collectors’ travel pass to find him. Brilliantly told in words and pictures this is a captivating adventure, irresistible to follow.
When Jim kindly allows Mr Underbed to sleep in his bed he is unprepared for all the other night-time visitors who want to share it too!
STOP PRESS: You have probably seen the Christmas TV ad for Moz the Monster. It looks to us as though the inspiration for it may well have come from Chris Riddell's debut picture book which was published a number of years ago. Let us know what you think through Lovereading4kids Facebook or via Twitter. It's a wonderful picture book and one of the best bedtime reads you can imagine. You can also read an extract right here to see for yourself just how good it is or indeed whether you think Mr Underbed has any similarities at all to Moz. Award-winning Chris Riddell tells a witty and inventive story that is perfect for bedtime. When Mr Underbed pops up from under Jim’s bed asking for somewhere more comfortable to sleep, Jim offers him some space. But soon Jim finds he has a bed-full of new arrivals – and nowhere for himself! Chris Riddell’s original characters are a delight.
A useful books about the Environment. Prize-winning illustrator Chris Riddell’s Wendel’s Workshop tells of the battle of the robots when Wendel, the master inventor, finds himself threatened by his new assistant, the Wendelbot. The highly detailed robotic illustrations provide endless delight while also conveying a serious message about conservation. Also available in audio CD format and hardback.
This is the audio CD version. Prize-winning illustrator Chris Riddell’s Wendel’s Workshop tells of the battle of the robots when Wendel, the master inventor, finds himself threatened by his new assistant, the Wendelbot. The highly detailed robotic illustrations provide endless delight while also conveying a serious message about conservation. This title is also available in hardback and paperback.
Shortlisted for the prestigious Sheffield Children's Book Award 2009 A wonderful quirky mystery adventure that follows the story of Miss Ottoline Brown, the inquisitive Mistress of Disguise, and her partner in crime, her hairy and helpful friend, Mr Munroe, first introduced in Ottoline and the Yellow Cat. No secret is ever too scary (eventhough the school is more than a bit scary for Munroe) for the two of them to discover together as well as puzzles to solve. Riddell’s sumptuous illustrations interspersed throughout the text make this ideal for 7-9 year olds as well as younger children whose parents want to read it with their child. It really is a beautiful production of a book – something to truly treasure and return to in years to come. A classic is born.
Prize-winning illustrator Chris Riddell’s Wendel’s Workshop tells of the battle of the robots when Wendel, the master inventor, finds himself threatened by his new assistant, the Wendelbot. The highly detailed robotic illustrations provide endless delight while also conveying a serious message about conservation. This title is also available in paperback and in Audio CD format.
Shortlisted for the Nestle Children's Award 2006 and for the incredibly prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal 2007. Sumptuous illustrations tempt readers into the delightfully absurd world in which dinner is served before lunch and skyfish settle on umbrella trees. The young Emperor is a charming child with a hairy wardrobe monster as an advisor who sets off hunting dragons across a gloriously imagined landscape where anything fantastical can happen. A richly entertaining picture book from a uniquely talented artist at the height of his powers. (0-7) Judges' comment: Riddell makes glorious use of colour in this very interesting and engaging picture book, which despite being extraordinarily detailed is very easy to read. It cleverly gives the reader the impression of moving physically into its landscape, and works on lots of different levels as it turns reality completely on its head. The composition of each page is always well-thought out, and the technique of using small pictures at certain points makes the reader slow down and study carefully. The ambiguous ending stays with you, and allows you to take pleasure from the book over and over again. Click here for an Emperor of Absurdia related activity sheet. Perfect for Reluctant Readers as well as keen readers. To view other titles we think are suitable for reluctant readers please click here.
Shortlisted for the prestigious 2008 Kate Greenaway Medal. A glorious adventure fantasy told in words and loads of Chris Riddell’s fabulous pictures, this tells how Ottoline, who loves solving puzzles, and her friend Mr Munro, a cat with a distinct personality and a number of foibles, set out to resolve the mystery of the lapdogs who are being stolen from all over town. A beautiful book to read or even just to hold. The latest Ottoline story is just out as well - Ottoline goes to School. - Winner of the 2007 Nestle Children's Book Prize Gold Award (6-8 category) - Shortlisted for the 2008 Red House Children's Book Award (Books for Younger Readers)
Shortlisted for the Nestle Children's Award 2006 and now deservedly shortlisted for the incredibly prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal 2007. Sumptuous illustrations tempt readers into the delightfully absurd world in which dinner is served before lunch and skyfish settle on umbrella trees. The young Emperor is a charming child with a hairy wardrobe monster as an advisor who sets off hunting dragons across a gloriously imagined landscape where anything fantastical can happen. A richly entertaining picture book from a uniquely talented artist at the height of his powers. (0-7)Judges' comment:Riddell makes glorious use of colour in this very interesting and engaging picture book, which despite being extraordinarily detailed is very easy to read. It cleverly gives the reader the impression of moving physically into its landscape, and works on lots of different levels as it turns reality completely on its head. The composition of each page is always well-thought out, and the technique of using small pictures at certain points makes the reader slow down and study carefully. The ambiguous ending stays with you, and allows you to take pleasure from the book over and over again.
In Poems to Save the World With, Chris Riddell has selected and illustrated his very favourite classic and modern poems to galvanize, uplift and inspire you through these interesting times. This gorgeously illustrated collection, Chris's follow-up to Poems to Live Your Life By and Poems to Fall in Love With, will ignite your inner activist and provide comfort and inspiration. These poems speak of hope, happiness, rebellion and living through a pandemic and are brought to life with Chris's exquisite, intricate artwork. This perfect gift features famous poems, old and new, and a few surprises. Classic verses sit alongside the modern to create the ultimate collection. Includes poems from Neil Gaiman, Nikita Gill, Maggie Smith, Brian Bilston, Raymond Antrobus, Fiona Benson, Lewis Carroll and many more.
Guardians of Magic is the first title in a brilliant magical adventure series from the Costa Award-winning creator of Goth Girl, Chris Riddell. This fantastic quest is fully illustrated in black and white throughout. Meet the Guardians of Magic: Zam, Phoebe and Bathsheba, three children who don't yet know how powerful they are . . . In a place where fairy tales don't behave, and magic brings danger, enemies of magic are working together to destroy it. Unless the three brave Guardians fight back and believe in the impossible, soon magic and the mysterious cloud horses will be gone . . . In Guardians of Magic the Costa award-winning, 2015-2017 UK Children's Laureate Chris Riddell weaves together a magical quest. This is the first title in The Cloud Horse Chronicles series.
_'A massive compilation casting light not only upon the pain, suffering and sheer insanity of war, but also upon the unique comradeship and exhilaration of battle... this is a valuable addition to the literature of reference.'_ - The Spectator Peter Tsouras brings 4,000 years of military history to life through the words of more than 800 soldiers, commanders, military theorists and commentators on war. Quotes by diverse personalities - Napoleon, Machiavelli, Atat rk, 'Che' Guevara, Rommel, Julius Caesar, Wellington, Xenophon, Crazy Horse, Wallenstein, T.E. Lawrence, Saladin, Zhukov, Eisenhower and many more - sit side by side to build a comprehensive picture of war across the ages. Broken down into more then 480 categories, covering courage, danger, failure, leadership, luck, military intelligence, tactics, training, guerrilla warfare and victory, this definitive guide draws on the collected wisdom of those who have experienced war at every level. From the brutality and suffering of war, to the courage and camaraderie of soldiers, to the glory and exhilaration of battle, these quotes offer an insight into the turbulent history of warfare and the lives and deeds of great warriors.
In Poems to Fall in Love With Chris Riddell has selected and illustrated his very favourite classic and modern poems about love. This gorgeously illustrated collection, Chris's follow-up to one of the Bookseller's best poetry books of the last 25 years, Poems to Live Your Life By, celebrates love in all its guises, from silent admiration through passion to tearful resignation. These poems speak of the universal experiences of the heart and are brought to life with Chris's exquisite, intricate artwork. This perfect gift features famous poems, old and new, and a few surprises. Classic verses sit alongside the modern to create the ultimate collection. Includes poems from Neil Gaiman, Nikita Gill, Carol Ann Duffy, E. E. Cummings, Shakespeare, Leonard Cohen, Derek Walcott, Hollie McNish, Kate Tempest, John Betjeman and Roger McGough and many more.
October 2019 Book of the Month | A new book by Chris Riddell is something to celebrate, especially one that gives his unique imagination free rein, as this does. There’s all sorts of trouble in the Kingdom of Thrynne: in the town of Troutwine, King Rat and his followers use threats of violence to extort money from its citizens; in the city of Nightingale, the Clockmaker’s sinister army of tin men enforces his tyrannical rule; and even in the village of Bream, deep in the Great Wood, the magical trees and the giants they shelter are in danger. In the very best tradition of fantasy adventures, three children and three bespoke enchanted objects are all that stand between magic and its destruction. The story positively crackles with invention and each chapter seems to introduce a wonderful new character before the storylines converge for a thrilling climax (fortunately one that leaves the door open for sequels). Fairytale adventure has never seemed so polished or ingenious. Young readers are spoiled for choice now when it comes to magical adventure, and readers of Guardians of Magic must also look out for Cressida Cowell’s Wizards of Once series.
A fabulously funny fairy tale, full of warmth and wit, and delightful details to discover - this is Chris Riddell at his picture book best! Little Green Raincape is on her way to Rapunzel's party, deep in the wild woods. The way is long and dark, but Green is a smart girl. Smart enough to turn down apples offered by kindly old ladies, smart enough to turn down travel advice from helpful wolves, and above all, smart enough to solve a wealth of classic fairy tale problems - not least mend a lovelorn beast's broken heart. Once Upon a Wild Wood is a richly imagined story packed full of familiar fairy tale characters as you've never seen them before. Including Red Riding Hood, Thumbelina, Rapunzel, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, the three bears, the seven dwarfs and many more!
A gloriously rich and beautiful picture book from Chris Riddell, the award-winning creator of Once Upon a Wild Wood. Welcome to Absurdia: a strange and wonderful land where nothing is quite what it seems. Trees are birds, umbrellas are trees, and the sky is thick with snoring fish. Join one small boy as he tumbles out of bed into a crazy dreamland of wardrobe monsters, dragons and amazing adventures! The Emperor of Absurdia is a brilliantly imaginative and original story from the bestselling picture book creator, Chris Riddell. With a story to enchant even the youngest reader and wonderfully rich and detailed illustrations, it will delight parents and children alike.
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