New Quentin Blake Collection at Osborne & Little

From the age of two until I was seven, I lived in England. Early on we lived in Battersea, London and then moved further north to Lincolnshire were we lived in a tiny village called Digby. As avid reader from a very young age - I have vivid memories of the fantastic illustrations of Quentin Blake that brought to life many childhood books.

I'm delighted to let you know that his creative and magical artwork has now been brought to life by Osborne & Little in wallpapers and fabrics. The collection is called Zagazoo - which comes from a book of the same name. This image above, depicts Cockatoos....and the book cover below. I just love the colours and design and even though the collection is of course suitable for children's rooms - I think this would be wonderful in a little guest bathroom or on one wall of an adult bedroom.

The book that is etched in my memory is Patrick which is not only illustrated by Quentin Blake but also written by him. It was actually his first illustrated book in full colours and it tells this imaginative story of Patrick and his extraordinary violin (which basically brings colour into the world).

Above, Cockatoos.

Above and below, Quentin's Menagerie.

Above, Skate Boarders.

Above, All Join In with Quentin's ABC.

I love All Join In because like Cockatoo's it is such a perfect example of his typical illustrations. He's particularly good at people and animals as they are so quirky and fun. This is the kind of fabric or wallpaper I'd put in our utility room just to add some unexpected element to the space.

Above, Quentin's ABC with Cockatoos fabric.

Above, Alphabet Tales which really does work well for both a baby boy or girl. It's delicate and sweet but full of his mischievous way of looking at things.

Above, Butterfly Meadow with Alphabet Tales.

Do be sure to check out the Quentin Blake website - while many of his books are out of print many are available through Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com. Definitely pick up a copy of Patrick - as I know your children will love it as much as I did. I'm ordering one for Sophia this week as I realize my childhood copy is back in the States.