In the hands of star author and illustrator, it all makes for an exceptionally satisfying adventure for young readers, with much they'll recognise, much to make them wonder. Lovereading4kids
Julia Donaldson has written some of the world's best-loved children's books, including modern classics The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child, which together have sold over 25 million copies worldwide and have been translated into over one hundred languages. Her other books include Room on the Broom, Stick Man and Zog, illustrated by Axel Scheffler, The Hospital Dog, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie and the hugely successful What the Ladybird Heard adventures, illustrated by Lydia Monks. Julia also writes fiction, including the Princess Mirror-Belle series, illustrated by Lydia Monks, as well as poems, plays and songs - and her brilliant live shows are always in demand. She was the UK Children's Laureate 2011-13 and has been honoured with a CBE for Services to Literature. Julia and her husband Malcolm divide their time between West Sussex and Edinburgh.
Rebecca Cobb is a rising star in children's picture books. Since graduating from Falmouth College of Arts in 2004, she has illustrated for many clients including Guardian Guide, Guardian Weekend magazine, The Independent and Waitrose Food Illustrated. Rebecca has collaborated on two picture storybooks with the Orange-Prize winner Helen Dunmore, both set in her native Cornwall. In addition, Rebecca's stunning illustrations accompanied Julia's Donaldson's wonderfully lyrical story in The Paper Dolls and The Everywhere Bear. In 2011 Macmillan published Rebecca's debut solo project, the hugely accomplished Missing Mummy which approached the subject of child bereavement with great honesty, sensitivity and integrity. Lunchtime is Rebecca's second solo picture book, and although wholly different in subject matter from her first, features the same stunning illustration style and child-friendly voice. Aunt Amelia, Rebecca Cobb's third picture book, is every bit as warm, engaging and original as her existing books, and is sure to continue to establish her as a real 'one to watch'.
