Book Home Famous Authors Lauren Child
Lauren Child is an English writer and illustrator who has absolutely changed the landscape of children's literature. Growing up with a passion for art and writing, Child has created worlds and characters that children, teens, and adults will always remember. In 2000, she became a household name with the publication of Charlie and Lola, a picture book series about two siblings and their everyday adventures. By combining creative storytelling with illustrations that are funny and dynamic, Lauren Child has revolutionized the way children's books are made.
Born in London, England in 1964, Lauren developed a love for art at an early age. She studied at the Epsom School of Art and Design and went on to work as a freelance illustrator in various advertising and publishing projects. After falling in love with the artistic possibilities of children's book illustration, she decided to pursue a career in that area. In 1998, she released I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato, a playful story about a picky eater and the arguments he has with his parents about his diet. It was celebrated with numerous awards and was followed up with its sequel, I'm the Best.
In 2000, Lauren published the first installment of her Charlie and Lola series, I Am Not Sleepy and I Will Not Go to Bed. The book centers around the antics of the two siblings and was just the beginning of what would become a much larger empire. The series won multiple awards and was adapted into an animated television show for the BBC and Disney Channel. They became an international sensation and launched Lauren into superstardom.
Since then, Child has published over two dozen titles that are adored by readers of all ages. She has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Nestle Smarties Book Prize, the Blue Peter Book Award, the British Book Award, the Kate Greenaway Medal, and the Newbery Medal. Child is also the creator of the Clarice Bean and Ruby Redford series, which follows the escapades of two curious and imaginative girls.
Child has also branched beyond written works. She has created a few audiobooks, and she has become an advocate for lively, positive images of gender. She has used her platform to often rejected gender stereotypes and challenge traditional roles. In 2019, she was named an ambassador for the National Literacy Trust.
Lauren Child's stories have touched the hearts and minds of countless readers. Her use of wit and humor coupled with her vibrant illustrations make her stories enjoyable and her characters relatable. She has completely changed the landscape of children's literature, and her works will be treasured for generations to come.