Step into the magical world of children's literature with Laura Diebelius, a beloved author of heartwarming tales for young readers. Each month, Laura will be sharing her favorite stories by indie authors and renowned writers, offering a glimpse into the enchanting realms of imagination and creativity that captivate both children and adults alike. Get ready to embark on a literary adventure filled with wonder and joy, curated with love by an award-winning and traditional published author who believes in the power of storytelling.
Janet and Allan Ahlberg collection
Peepo! – 1981
Each Peach Pear Plum – 1978
The Jolly Postman or Other People's Letters – 1986
Is there anything better than reading your childhood books 30 years later with your own children?
These beautiful tales sparked a lifelong love of reading in me that I hope to pass down the generations. Written and illustrated by married couple, Janet and Allan Ahlberg, these interactive stories are a joy for adults and children alike.
Here’s a little baby, one, two, three, stands in his cot what does he see? PEEPO!
This story is told through the eyes of a baby, following his day through a series of peepholes, giving the reader a sneak-peek at what’s ahead. What I love so much about this book, is the simplicity of the child’s day. There’s no great adventure because, to a baby, a ‘normal’ day is an adventure.
The charming illustrations portray a true reflection of everyday life - the messy rooms, the chores, the family together, the warm and cozy home. Through the lens of a child we see his grandma hanging washing, his father collecting coal and his sisters skipping in the yard. Published in 1981, we are transported back to a time that many parents and grandparents will have fond memories of. I’ve since read that Allan, who was adopted as a baby and grew up in a poor, working-class family, identified himself as the baby in the story.
Once upon a bicycle, so they say, a jolly postman came one day. From over the hills and far away…
Of the three stories, this one is the most nostalgic for me. I remember how magical this book was as a small child, opening envelopes with letters, cards, leaflets and miniature stories. Similar to Each Peach Pear Plum, this story brings together traditional tales and classic nursery rhymes as we follow the jolly postman delivering mail from and to the characters. My children asked me to read this three times in the same sitting and my five-year-old took the book to bed to carry on exploring. Once again, it is beautifully illustrated and a joy for children and adults alike.
About the authors/illustrators
Whilst researching these stories I was sad to read that Janet passed away in 1994 from cancer. Prior to this, Janet and Allan worked together for 20 years with Allan writing the books and Janet illustrating them, winning numerous awards. Allan continued to write books, two of which were illustrated by their daughter, Jessica. At 86 years old, he has now published over 150 books. An absolute inspiration for a novice children’s picture book author like me!
Thanks for joining me as I shared these delightful stories with you! I hope you enjoyed them as much as I did. Bye for now, and I can’t wait to share new adventures with you all next month! Happy reading!
