The king of Children’s books, and contributor – Kids’ Night In – Michael Morpurgo celebrated his 80th birthday in October 2023 but the publishing celebrations are set to last until 2025! And of course it’s only fitting that the literary star should have such ongoing celebrations.
HarperCollins Children’s Books have unveiled the celebratory publishing plans with almost 50 titles included. There will also be new author branding designed by Morpurgo’s granddaughter, Alice, illustrations by Dapo Adeola and an introduction from Benedict Cumberbatch.
New and beautiful paperback editions of his backlist titles are scheduled for release between August 2023 and March 2025 – forty-seven books in total. There will be a major PR and marketing campaign and lots of events, including the War Horse 40th Anniversary concert at various festivals.
Morpurgo said: “Eighty is fine. I’ve had a life full of Clare, and family and friends. I live in a pastoral paradise, have my health, mostly, and my memories, mostly. I am still writing almost every day and enjoying it, singing in the shower and enjoying it, going for my walks on the wild side in all weathers and enjoying them, still seeing our Farms for City Children tramping off in their wellies to feed the sheep, and hearing their laughter in the fields. I love a good wine and an asparagus risotto, and rhubarb crumble. Our blackbird is with us all year round, goldfinches too. Our swallows still come in the spring. I love Mozart and the Proclaimers as much as ever.”
