The Gorilla Inscribed By Anthony Browne To Wendy Cooling

Published by Julia Macrae for Random Century, London, UK, 1983. First edition thus. Original pictorial boards. Size: 25cm x 19.1cm. Unpaginated. One in the ‘Little Greats’ series. Illustrated throughout. Inscribed by Anthony Browne to the book reviewer, traveller, author, teacher and founder of Bookstart, Wendy Cooling: ‘For Wendy, with very best wishes, Anthony Browne’. Browne has also drawn a splendid Gorilla in ink for Wendy on the same page. (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 and 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.

Anthony Browne: A Short Biography

Anthony Browne (born September 11, 1946) is a distinguished British author and illustrator, renowned for his impactful contributions to children’s literature. Browne’s works are celebrated for their intricate illustrations, often featuring gorillas and subtle surrealism, which invite readers to explore deeper themes beneath the surface. His books, such as “Gorilla”, “Willy the Wimp”, and “Voices in the Park”, are noted for their psychological depth and visual complexity. Browne’s innovative approach earned him the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2000, and he served as the UK’s Children’s Laureate from 2009 to 2011.

Early Life and Career

• Education: Browne was born in Sheffield, England, and attended Leeds College of Art, where he initially trained to become a graphic designer. His early work included illustrating medical textbooks, which honed his detailed drawing skills.
• Transition to Children’s Books: Browne’s career in children’s literature began in the 1970s when he started illustrating books for other authors. His first solo picture book, “Through the Magic Mirror”, was published in 1976, marking the start of his successful career as both author and illustrator.

Signature Style and Themes

• Gorillas: One of the recurring motifs in Browne’s work is gorillas, which he uses as symbols of strength, gentleness, and human emotions. His book “Gorilla” (1983) is one of his most famous works, exploring themes of loneliness and imagination.
• Visual and Psychological Depth: Browne’s books often contain surreal elements, with illustrations that play with perspective, reality, and visual puns. This complexity allows his stories to be appreciated on multiple levels, appealing to both children and adults.
• Willy Series: The “Willy” series, featuring a shy and kind chimpanzee, is another of Browne’s well-loved creations. The books, including “Willy the Wimp” and “Willy the Champ”, address themes of self-acceptance and courage.

Awards and Recognition

• Hans Christian Andersen Award: In 2000, Browne received the Hans Christian Andersen Award for Illustration, the highest international recognition for children’s book creators, acknowledging his lifetime contribution to the field.
• Children’s Laureate: From 2009 to 2011, Browne served as the UK’s Children’s Laureate, during which he focused on encouraging children’s creativity through drawing and storytelling.

Legacy

Anthony Browne’s work has left a profound impact on children’s literature, offering young readers stories that are visually captivating and emotionally resonant. His ability to blend artistic innovation with deep psychological insight has made him one of the most respected figures in the world of children’s books. His legacy continues to influence new generations of readers and illustrators alike.

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