If you enjoy reading books by Judith Kerr then you might also like the following authors:
Michael Bond is best known as the creator of Paddington Bear, a character who has become a classic in children’s literature. In “A Bear Called Paddington,” the story begins when the Brown family discovers a small bear from Peru at a train station.
They take him home, where his polite manners and love for marmalade often lead to hilarious situations. Whether it’s accidentally flooding the bathroom or creating chaos at a department store, Paddington’s misadventures are always heartwarming and fun.
Fans of Judith Kerr’s whimsical storytelling might enjoy the charm and gentle humor of Bond’s writing.
Beatrix Potter was a writer and illustrator known for bringing animal characters to life. One of her books, “The Tale of Peter Rabbit,” tells the story of a mischievous young rabbit named Peter who sneaks into Mr. McGregor’s garden against his mother’s warning.
Peter faces plenty of trouble as he tries to escape, with his blue jacket getting caught and the farmer close behind. Potter’s charming illustrations and simple storytelling make her books memorable and fun to read.
If you enjoy Judith Kerr’s work, you might appreciate how Potter captures the everyday adventures of her characters.
Roald Dahl wrote stories that often mix ordinary life with strange or magical twists. His books are full of imagination and surprises, making them unforgettable. One example is “Matilda,” which tells the story of a young girl with a love for books and a sharp mind.
She has to deal with terrible adults, like her unkind parents and the cruel headmistress Miss Trunchbull. Matilda discovers she has a special power that helps her stand up to them and change her life.
Dahl’s way of showing children outsmarting grown-ups has a fun and mischievous charm.
Jacqueline Wilson is a well-loved author known for her ability to write stories that speak to children and young teens. Her book “The Story of Tracy Beaker” introduces Tracy, a spirited girl living in a children’s home.
Tracy dreams about her glamorous mother coming to take her away but often clashes with others because of her fiery personality. The story explores themes of friendship, family, and belonging through Tracy’s bold and emotional voice.
Readers who enjoy characters with strong personalities may appreciate Wilson’s heartfelt storytelling.
Shirley Hughes wrote wonderful stories for children and is known for her focus on everyday life and warm illustrations. One of her best-loved books is “Dogger.” It’s about a little boy named Dave who loses his favorite stuffed dog.
The story follows his attempts to find it and highlights the love and kindness of his big sister, Bella. Hughes captures the small, emotional moments of childhood with a lot of heart, making her books feel comforting and real.
Lauren Child is a writer and illustrator known for her charming and imaginative stories. One of her well-loved books, “I Will Never Not Ever Eat a Tomato,” follows the adventures of Charlie and his little sister Lola.
Lola is a picky eater who refuses to touch certain foods, but Charlie comes up with creative and funny ways to make her curious about them. For example, he reimagines carrots as orange twiglets from Jupiter.
The story is playful and full of clever moments, appealing to both young readers and adults who enjoy lighthearted tales with vibrant illustrations.
Raymond Briggs was an author and illustrator known for creating heartfelt and imaginative stories that often explore relationships and emotions in simple and touching ways.
One of his well-loved books, “The Snowman,” tells the wordless story of a boy who builds a snowman that magically comes to life. Together, they share a magical night, including a flight through the sky.
The book is beautifully illustrated and captures a sense of wonder and bittersweetness that leaves a lasting impression.
Michael Rosen is a writer and poet known for creating stories that often explore family, childhood, and imagination. One of his books, “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” follows a family as they journey through fields, rivers, and forests in search of a bear.
They face obstacles like mud and snowstorms, using rhythmic phrases and repetition that make the story lively and fun to read aloud. It’s a playful adventure that captures the wonder and curiosity of children while also showing the closeness of family.
E.H. Shepard is best known for his illustrations, but he also wrote delightful stories. One of his books, “Ben and Brook”, tells the tale of a young boy named Ben and his friendship with a mischievous brook.
The story follows their amusing adventures as the brook playfully leads Ben into unexpected situations. There’s a warm sense of wonder in Shepard’s storytelling, which fans of Judith Kerr’s work might enjoy.
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry was a French writer and aviator who is best known for his beautifully illustrated novella, “The Little Prince.” The story begins with a pilot stranded in the desert after a plane crash.
He meets a young boy from another planet who recounts his journey across various worlds, each inhabited by peculiar characters. Through these meetings, the book explores themes of friendship, love, and the beauty of seeing the world through a child’s eyes.
The tender relationship between the prince and his rose is especially heartfelt and stays with you long after reading it. Saint-Exupéry’s writing captures imagination while offering a lot to reflect on.
Anna Dewdney was a children’s author and illustrator known for creating warm, relatable stories. Her book, “Llama Llama Red Pajama,” focuses on a young llama who feels scared after his mother leaves him alone at bedtime.
The story captures the ups and downs of childhood emotions with simple rhymes and comforting illustrations. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy stories that blend gentle humor with sincerity, much like Judith Kerr’s work.
Mary Norton is an author known for creating imaginative worlds and memorable characters. Her book, “The Borrowers,” introduces readers to tiny people who live hidden in the walls and floors of ordinary houses.
They “borrow” small items from human households to survive, like matchsticks for furniture or scraps of fabric for clothes. The story follows Arrietty, a young Borrower, as she befriends a human boy.
Their friendship brings excitement and danger to her family, who fear being discovered. It’s a tale that explores curiosity, trust, and the challenges of living in a world not made for you.
Astrid Lindgren is a beloved author known for creating stories with warmth and charm. One of her most famous books, “Pippi Longstocking,” introduces readers to Pippi, a fierce and quirky girl with unmatched strength and a wild imagination.
She lives alone in a house called Villa Villekulla, alongside her horse and a monkey named Mr. Nilsson. Pippi turns everyday life into one exciting adventure after another, often flipping boring routines upside down with her antics.
Louisa May Alcott is an author known for stories that focus on family, friendship, and growing up. Her book “Little Women” follows the lives of four sisters—Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy—as they navigate challenges and joys during the Civil War era.
The story captures their relationships with one another, their dreams, and their struggles with responsibility and ambition. Jo, an aspiring writer, stands out for her strong-willed nature and determination to break societal expectations.
The warmth of their family bond and the ups and downs they face make the story feel alive.
John Burningham was a beloved author and illustrator known for his warm and imaginative picture books for children. One of his best-loved works is “Mr Gumpy’s Outing.” The story follows Mr. Gumpy as he sets off on a simple boat ride down the river.
Along the way, animals and children ask to come aboard, each with their own quirks and behaviors. The journey, peaceful at first, grows more chaotic but ends on a happy and gentle note. Burningham’s work shares a comforting charm that fans of Judith Kerr might appreciate.