Home / Arts and Entertainment / Puffin Picture Books Pioneer Noel Carrington Celebrated in New Exhibition
Puffin Picture Books Pioneer Noel Carrington Celebrated in New Exhibition
15 Nov
Summary
- Publisher Noel Carrington created affordable, high-quality Puffin Picture Books for evacuee children during WWII
- Carrington commissioned and published some of Britain's most beloved children's books
- Exhibition showcases all 120 Puffin books for the first time
A new exhibition at The Higgins Bedford is set to shine a light on the life and work of Noel Carrington, an influential but often overlooked figure in the world of children's publishing. Carrington, who moved to Bedford in 1903, is credited with helping shape children's reading through the 20th century, particularly through his creation of the iconic Puffin Picture Books series.
Launched in December 1940, the Puffin Picture Books were designed to be affordable and accessible for evacuee children during World War II. Carrington commissioned, edited, and published some of Britain's best-loved children's books, ensuring they were both entertaining and instructive for young readers aged 7 to 14. The exhibition, titled "Noel Carrington - Nothing Need be Ugly," marks the 85th anniversary of the first Puffin Picture Book's publication.
