The Adventures Of Bert Inscribed By Allan Ahlberg To Wendy Cooling

Published by Viking, London, UK, 2001. First edition. Original pictorial boards. Dustwrapper. Size: 22.3cm x 28.1cm. Illustrated throughout by Raymond Briggs. Inscribed by Allan Ahlberg to the book reviewer, traveller, author, teacher and founder of Bookstart, Wendy Cooling: ‘For dear Wendy, best wishes Allan’ on the front free endpaper. An invitation to the book launch at Quo Vadis and a place setting for Bert Cooling are also loosely inserted. (Cooling’s review of ‘Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone’ is found on the front board of the first edition of Rowling’s first book.) A fine, tight, bright, clean copy in fine dustwrapper. A wonderful association copy. Scarce thus.

Wendy Cooling: A Short Biography

Wendy Cooling (1941–2020) was a British educator, author, and influential figure in children’s literature. She is best known for her work in promoting reading among children and for founding the Bookstart program, which encourages parents to share books with their young children from an early age.

Early Life and Career

• Born: March 21, 1941, in Woking, Surrey, England.
• Education: Cooling trained as a teacher and began her career working in schools, where she developed a deep passion for children’s literature and the importance of early literacy.

Contribution to Children’s Literacy

• Bookstart: In 1992, Cooling founded the Bookstart program in the UK. The initiative was ground-breaking, as it was the first program of its kind to provide free books to parents of babies and young children, aiming to instil a love of reading from a very young age. The success of Bookstart led to its adoption in many other countries and established it as a key early literacy program worldwide.
• Advocacy: Wendy Cooling was a tireless advocate for children’s literacy. She worked extensively with schools, libraries, and publishers to promote reading and to ensure that children had access to quality literature.
• Authorship: In addition to her work as an educator and literacy advocate, Cooling also authored several anthologies and books for children, often focusing on introducing young readers to a wide range of stories and cultures.

Legacy

• Recognition: Cooling received numerous accolades for her contributions to children’s literacy, including an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 2009 for her services to children’s literature.
• Impact: Wendy Cooling’s work has had a lasting impact on early childhood education and literacy. Her efforts have helped millions of children develop a love for reading, setting them on a path to lifelong learning.
• Wendy Cooling played a significant role in the early promotion of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Her review, which appeared on the first edition’s cover, described the book as “a terrific read and a stunning first novel.” Cooling’s endorsement was one of the early critical praises that helped draw attention to Rowling’s debut, contributing to its initial success. Cooling’s influence in children’s literature and her positive review played a part in the book’s rise to prominence

Cooling passed away on June 16, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to children’s literature and education. Her work continues to inspire educators, parents, and children around the world.

Allan Ahlberg: A Short Biography

Allan Ahlberg (born June 5, 1938) is a highly regarded British author and poet, best known for his children’s books. He has written over 140 books, many in collaboration with his late wife, Janet Ahlberg, an illustrator. Their most famous works include “Each Peach Pear Plum” and “The Jolly Postman”, both of which became classics in children’s literature. Ahlberg’s books are celebrated for their clever rhymes, engaging stories, and charming illustrations. His work has won numerous awards and continues to be loved by children and adults alike.

Raymond Briggs: A Short Biography

Raymond Briggs (1934–2022) was a celebrated British illustrator, author, and cartoonist. He is best known for his timeless children’s book “The Snowman” (1978), a wordless picture book that became an international classic, especially after its adaptation into a beloved animated film in 1982. Born in Wimbledon, London, Briggs studied at the Wimbledon School of Art and the Slade School of Fine Art. His work often explored both whimsical and profound themes, blending humour with deeper reflections on life, loss, and family.

In addition to “The Snowman”, Briggs created other significant works, including “Father Christmas” (1973), which humorously depicted Santa as a grumpy, yet lovable character. His graphic novel “When the Wind Blows” (1982) presented a poignant portrayal of a nuclear attack’s impact on an elderly couple, highlighting his versatility and willingness to tackle serious topics. Throughout his career, Briggs received numerous awards and accolades, and his work has left a lasting impact on both children’s literature and graphic novels.

Briggs passed away on August 9, 2022, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential and beloved storytellers of his time.

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