John Burningham author page

John Burningham biography

John Burningham was a British author and illustrator known for his work in children’s literature. He studied illustration and graphic design at the Central School of Art in London. Burningham’s first picture book, Borka: The Adventures of a Goose with No Feathers, was published in 1963 and won the Kate Greenaway Medal, an award recognising distinguished illustration in a children’s book.

Throughout his career, Burningham wrote and illustrated numerous books for children, often combining gentle humour with distinctive artwork. His notable titles include Mr Gumpy’s Outing, Avocado Baby, Granpa, and Would You Rather…. Mr Gumpy’s Outing received the Kate Greenaway Medal in 1970, making Burningham a two-time recipient of the award.

Burningham’s books have been published by Jonathan Cape and other major publishers. His work is recognised for its unique illustrative style and its appeal to both children and adults. In 2012, Burningham was shortlisted for the Hans Christian Andersen Award, an international recognition for lasting contributions to children’s literature.

John Burningham’s final book, Mr Gumpy’s Rhino, was published in 2019.

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