Christianna Brand (1909-1988) grew up living with the family of her cousin, Edward Ardizzone. Her first novel, Death in High Heels, was published in 1941, followed by a series of successful crime novels and historical romance as well as much-loved children's books. The first Nurse Matilda book was published in 1964, and quickly gained a devoted following. Edward Ardizzone (1900-1979) is an acclaimed and beloved 20th-century British illustrator. He worked for the Radio Times, exhibited his art in prestigious galleries and in 1936 he published his first book, Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain. In 1956 Tim All Alone was the first book to win the Kate Greenaway Award. In 1962, Christianna and Edward collaborated on an anthology of stories called Naughty Children, which featured a tale about Nurse Matilda, followed by Nurse Matilda Goes to Town (in 1966) and Nurse Matilda Goes to Hospital (in 1973).

Full of such inventive naughtiness – it may be better to keep these away from your children

Christianna Brand (1909-1988) grew up living with the family of her cousin, Edward Ardizzone. Her first novel, Death in High Heels, was published in 1941, followed by a series of successful crime novels and historical romance as well as much-loved children's books. The first Nurse Matilda book was published in 1964, and quickly gained a devoted following. Edward Ardizzone (1900-1979) is an acclaimed and beloved 20th-century British illustrator. He worked for the Radio Times, exhibited his art in prestigious galleries and in 1936 he published his first book, Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain. In 1956 Tim All Alone was the first book to win the Kate Greenaway Award. In 1962, Christianna and Edward collaborated on an anthology of stories called Naughty Children, which featured a tale about Nurse Matilda, followed by Nurse Matilda Goes to Town (in 1966) and Nurse Matilda Goes to Hospital (in 1973).

Full of such inventive naughtiness – it may be better to keep these away from your children