From magical fairy tales and inspiring adventures to informative guides on everything from historical figures to arithmetic, the iconic Ladybird children’s books defined a generation.
Now the golden years of the imprint – from 1940 to 1975 – is to be celebrated with a special exhibition at Bath’s Victoria Art Gallery.
The Wonderful World of the Ladybird Book Artists will offer a trip down memory lane for many while introducing the books to a new, younger audience.
The exhibition, which runs from 19 January to 14 April 2024, uncovers the story of the talented artists who illustrated the books during their heyday and features hundreds of books and original artworks.
As well as a nostalgic look back at childhood, the exhibition promises a chance for younger visitors to discover the classic books for the first time.
A free ‘I Spy’ exhibition trail will bring Ladybird books to life and a cosy reading corner complete with a ‘Coco the Caravan’ den will offer the chance to curl up with a classic.
‘Toddler Thursdays’ will welcome pre-schoolers and their carers for weekly story-time sessions, while family craft sessions inspired by Ladybird artwork will run throughout February half term and the Easter school holidays.
Vintage Ladybird books encapsulate much of the history of 20th-century Britain. There were many different reasons for the books’ phenomenal success but – as they were essentially picture books – it was mainly the illustrations that attracted and engaged readers.
The exhibition will explore the artists, models and real locations linked to Ladybird and recount the fascinating story of a little Loughborough print business that became a giant in children’s publishing.
The exhibition is curated by Ladybird expert and enthusiast Helen Day, who has spent more than 20 years collecting and researching the books.
She said: “I’m so excited to be bringing my colourful, nostalgic exhibition to the beautiful city of Bath.”
Bath & North East Somerset Council cabinet member for economic & cultural sustainable development, Cllr Paul Roper, added: “Many people will have fond memories of learning to read with Ladybird books, and this fantastic exhibition will appeal to them as well as to younger visitors discovering the wonderful world of Ladybird books for the first time.”
Admission is free for Bath and North East Somerset residents with their Discovery Card.
There will be lunchtime exhibition tours at 1.30pm to 2pm every Thursday, suitable for all ages and free with an exhibition ticket.
The Victoria Art Gallery shop will also stock a range of Ladybird-themed prints, books and gifts.
