Ahlberg marks 80th birthday with new publishing

Picture book creator Allan Ahlberg will turn 80-years-old in June and to celebrate Penguin Random House (PRH) Children’s is releasing a special edition of Each Peach Pear Plum, as well as a new title created in collaboration with Emma Chichester-Clark.

Ahlberg created Each Peach Pear Plum with his late wife, Janet, and the book was first published by Puffin 40 years ago. The new edition will printed in a “deluxe hardback” format and include an exclusive print and personal note from the author. It will be released on 3rd May, priced at £12.99.

Ahlberg has also teamed up with Chichester-Clark to create a new story about a baby who is swept out to sea. Baby on Board will be published on 7th June.

Anna Barnes, commisioning editor at Penguin Random House Children’s, said: "Baby on Board is a classic in the making. Allan conjured an evocative tale redolent with hot summer days spent at the beach, that transforms into a picture-book epic complete with adventure, drama, and three intrepid toys who save the day. And Emma’s artwork is extraordinary: at once inviting and dramatic, a perfect match for Allan’s text. Working with the two of them to bring this book to life was a real privilege.’’

In other PRH Children’s news, commissioning editor Carmen McCullough has acquired The Proof of the Outside by debut YA author Sarah Ann Juckes. The book is about Ele, who is held captive in a small room but is determined to prove there is a world outside.

McCullough acquired world rights at auction from Sallyanne Sweeney at Mulcahy Associates and will publish in January 2019 in paperback and e-book.