Dow thanks ‘inspiring’ authors and illustrators at PRH Children’s summer party

Francesca Dow, managing director of PRH Children’s, hailed the vital importance of the work children’s authors and illustrators do at the organisation’s annual summer party last night (21st June). 

Speaking to authors, illustrators, agents, retailers, media, influencers and employees at College Garden in London, Dow thanked all the guests and emphasised the importance of the work creatives do, stating: “You here are the classics of today who will be read tomorrow. Responding to the lives and needs of kids now.

“Making them laugh. Helping them understand. Inspiring them to dream. Giving them power… because that is what reading does. What greater gift could you give a child?” 

She went on to speak about the importance of school libraries in primary schools and that the World of Stories initiative, launched by Puffin in partnership with the National Literacy Trust, and with support from Arts Council England, is on track to meet its goal of transforming 500 libraries in primary schools by the end of 2024. 

She highlighted that one in seven primary schools do not have a dedicated library and in the UK’s most deprived areas that number is one in four.

Celebrated authors and illustrators including Dapo Adeola, Axel Scheffler, Robin Stevens and Waterstones Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho, were in attendance alongside rising stars including Kim Hillyard and Katie Kirby. Debut authors were also in attendance including Bea Fitzgerald. 

At the end of the evening, guests were offered gifts of sweets from a bespoke sweet cart and copies of Gretel the Wonder Mammoth by Kim Hillyard which won Best Illustrated Book at this year’s Waterstones Children’s Book Prize and Each, Peach, Pear, Plum by Janet and Allan Ahlberg which celebrates its 45th anniversary this year.