Passing of a Legendary Author
The famous children’s author Allan Ahlberg has passed away at the age of 87, as confirmed by his publisher Penguin Random House. Ahlberg had a remarkable career spanning over five decades, during which he wrote 150 books that brought joy and laughter to millions of children around the world.
A Legacy of Collaboration and Creativity
Many of Ahlberg’s most notable works were the result of his collaboration with the award-winning illustrator Janet Ahlberg, his late wife. Together, they created some of the most beloved children’s books of all time, including "The Funny Postman", "Funny Bones", "Peepo!", and the award-winning "Peach Pear Plum". Their books have sold millions of copies worldwide and have become classics in the world of children’s literature.
Tributes from Fellow Authors and Illustrators
Michael Rosen, a fellow children’s author, paid tribute to Ahlberg, describing him as a "pioneer of great children’s literature". Rosen praised Ahlberg’s ability to craft stories that were both funny and wise, saying that his own children loved his books. Francesca Dow, the head of children’s literature at Penguin Random House, also paid tribute to Ahlberg, describing his books as "mini masterworks" that would continue to be loved by children and families for generations to come.
A Life of Creativity and Passion
Ahlberg was born in Croydon in 1938 and was raised by his adoptive parents in Oldbury. Before becoming a teacher and a writer, he worked as a postman, plumber, and gravedigger. He met his first wife Janet while working at the Sunderland Teacher Training College, and they began their collaborative writing career in 1975 with the publication of their first joint book, "Here Are the Brick Street Boys". This was quickly followed by other successful books, including "The Old Joker", "Burglar Bill", and "Each Peach Pear Plum", for which Janet won the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal in 1978.
A Career Marked by Success and Awards
Ahlberg’s books have won numerous awards over the years, including the Kurt Maschler Award for "The Jolly Postman" in 1991. The book went on to sell over six million copies, and its sequel, "The Jolly Christmas Postman", won a second Kate Greenaway Medal in 1991. Ahlberg’s book "Woof!", about a little boy who turns into a dog, was also adapted into a successful TV series that ran on ITV from 1989 to 1997.
A Principled Stance
In 2014, Ahlberg made headlines when he rejected a lifetime achievement award due to its sponsorship by Amazon, which was facing criticism at the time for its tax agreements. This move was seen as a testament to Ahlberg’s principles and his commitment to standing up for what he believed in.
A Lasting Legacy
Ahlberg is survived by his wife Vanessa, his daughter Jessica, and his step-daughters Saskia and Johanna. His passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes and condolences from the literary world, with many authors, illustrators, and readers paying tribute to his remarkable legacy. Ahlberg’s books will continue to be loved and cherished by children and families for generations to come, and his contribution to the world of children’s literature will never be forgotten.
