Jill Murphy was a beloved British author and illustrator known for her charming children's books filled with warmth, humor, and relatable characters. Born on July 5, 1949, in London, she displayed a passion for storytelling and illustration from a young age. Murphy gained widespread recognition for The Worst Witch series, which introduced readers to the lovable but accident-prone Mildred Hubble at Miss Cackle’s Academy. The books became a classic, inspiring TV adaptations and a devoted fan base. She also wrote and illustrated the Large Family series, including Five Minutes’ Peace, which humorously depicted the joys and struggles of family life. Her ability to capture everyday experiences with wit and empathy made her a favorite among children and parents alike. Jill Murphy’s timeless stories continue to delight generations, leaving a lasting legacy in children’s literature. She passed away in 2021, but her books remain cherished classics.
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One of the great things about teaching is that no two classes (or kids) are the same. But (and this might be a controversial one) almost every class has a Mildred Hubble. If you’ve landed here looking for books like The Worst Witch, stick with me. The list is below. Now these kids wouldn’t necessarily […]
You’ve made it through the endless negotiations (and demands) of dinner, bath and teeth brushing. Now it’s time for the bedtime story. What you need tonight is a short chapter book for bedtime. One chapter, a generous twenty minutes (most will run shorter), and a natural stop. That’s the secret weapon. The perfectly sized chapter […]
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