Shirley Hughes, who has created favourite picture book characters including Alfie and his little sister Annie Rose, goes back in time in this warm-hearted and evocative picture book. Life is hard for Bronwen and Dylan’s mum. She makes her living by taking in other people’s washing and sometimes, to get all the jobs done, she has to leave the two children at home. One night, just before Christmas, Bronwen and Dylan hear a frightening noise…Could it be Father Christmas or is it something more scary? Luckily, kind neighbours are on hand and soon both families are getting ready to celebrate Christmas.
This is an inspiring tale of Christmas goodwill and acceptance from Shirley Hughes, one of the world's best-loved picture book creators. When Bronwen and Dylan are frightened by ghostly noises from the chimney on Christmas Eve, they run straight into the arms of their neighbor Mrs O'Riley. As they step next door for the first time, it's not just Bronwen and Dylan who can stop being afraid of what's on the other side of their walls - Mam might just find a blessing there too. 1930s Liverpool is brought alive with evocative drawings in a story that recognizes the richness of human kindness, even in times of hardship and poverty.
Winner of the Book Trust Lifetime Achievement Award 2015.
Shirley Hughes (1927 – 2022) was born and grew up in West Kirby, near Liverpool. She studied at Liverpool Art School and at the Ruskin School of Art in Oxford, before embarking on a career as a freelance illustrator. At first she worked as an interpretive illustrator, but she began to write and design her own picture books when her children were very young. Her first book, Lucy and Tom's Day, was published in 1960.
Shirley Hughes illustrated over two hundred children's books and is renowned as a champion of children's literature. She has been the recipient of the Other Award, the Kate Greenaway Medal and the prestigious Eleanor Farjeon Award. She was nominated for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in2010, which rewards the best in contemporary children's and young adult literature from all over the world.
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