LONDON (AP) — British writer Allan Ahlberg, acclaimed for his contributions to children's literature with more than 150 books, has passed away at the age of 87. His publisher, Penguin Random House, confirmed that Ahlberg died on Tuesday, although the cause of death was not disclosed.
Ahlberg's literary works have captivated generations of young readers, characterized by their simple rhymes, keen observations, and gentle humor. He often collaborated with his illustrator wife, Janet Ahlberg, who predeceased him in 1994. Together, they created beloved classics such as "Each Peach Pear Plum" and "The Jolly Postman," which introduced imaginative and interactive storytelling elements.
One of Ahlberg's notable creations, "Peepo!" (1981), offered a baby's perspective of the world, incorporating peep-holes in the pages that allowed readers to sneak a glance at subsequent scenes. "The Jolly Postman" (1986) took innovation a step further by including postcards and letters in envelopes, enabling children to engage physically with the narrative as they followed a letter-carrier delivering mail to fairy tale characters. Penguin Random House remarked that Ahlberg's work "pushed at the boundaries of what it is possible for a book to be."
In addition to children's stories, Ahlberg authored joke books like "The Ha Ha Bonk Book" and poetry collections aimed at primary school-aged children, such as "Please Mrs. Butler" and "Heard it in the Playground." His knack for engaging young minds through humor and relatable themes made him a staple in children's literature.
Born in 1938 and raised in a working-class household in Oldbury, central England, Ahlberg held various jobs before turning to writing, including postman, plumber's mate, and grave digger. He later transitioned into education, where he met Janet while studying at teacher training college. They published their first book, "Here are the Brick Street Boys," in 1975, marking the beginning of a prolific partnership.
The Ahlbergs achieved further acclaim with titles such as "Burglar Bill" (1977), centering on a burglar who steals a baby, and "Each Peach Pear Plum" (1978), which featured intricately illustrated nursery-rhyme characters. This particular work earned Janet Ahlberg the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal for illustration. Allan Ahlberg continued to receive accolades, including the same award for "The Jolly Christmas Postman" in 1991.
Following Janet's untimely death from cancer at the age of 50, Ahlberg collaborated with several illustrators, including Raymond Briggs and his own daughter, Jessica Ahlberg. His ability to adapt and continue creating meaningful stories demonstrated his resilience and dedication to children's literature.
In addition to his children's books, Ahlberg penned a tribute to his late wife titled "Janet's Last Book," along with two autobiographies: "The Boyhood of Burglar Bill" and "The Bucket." These works reflect not only his personal journey but also his deep affection for his wife and their shared passion for storytelling.
Francesca Dow, head of children's literature at Penguin Random House, described Ahlberg's books as "mini masterpieces." She emphasized his understanding of the importance of crafting perfect stories for children, stating, "the very best stories for children last forever." Ahlberg's enduring works are expected to continue enchanting children and families for years to come.
He is survived by his second wife, Vanessa Clarke, as well as his daughter and two stepdaughters. Ahlberg's legacy in children's literature remains significant, his stories echoing in the hearts of readers young and old alike.
