Were you a Ladybird book collector? Did you or your children learn to read with Peter and Jane? Join us for a facinating talk about how Ladybird began, why they became an iconic brand and how their distinctive appearance and high standards of production were achieved. 

First intended as a temporary expedient during World War One, Ladybird Books became a global phenomenon loved by millions of parents, teachers and children. Celebrating their centenary with a fascinating history and analysis in his new book Ladybird by Design, Lawrence Zeegan delves into the stories behind the books’ beautiful art and design. His talk to the Trust will include special reference to Ladybird’s focus on interpreting natural history and the environment for both children and adults.

Joining Lawrence will be Jenny Pearce, who has a family link with Ladybird and collaborated on Ladybird by Design. It was her father, Douglas Keen, then a salesman for the company, who first persuaded Ladybird in the 1950s to switch to educational books, and saw the potential for using the firm’s capability for full-colour printing to produce illustrations that would attract children to learn and encourage them to collect. 

Read more on our blog and in an article in the Guardian 

An exhibition of over 120 original illustrations from Ladybird Books will be opening at the HOUSE OF ILLUSTRATION in King's Cross from the 10 Jul to 27 Sep 2015

Become a member of the Environment Trust to recieve discounted ticket prices for this and other special events.