Sheila Sancha author page

Sheila Sancha biography

Sheila Sancha was a British author and illustrator known for her work in children’s historical non-fiction. She specialised in bringing aspects of British history to life for young readers through both her writing and illustrations. Sancha trained at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London, where she developed her skills in illustration.

Sancha’s books often focused on everyday life in historical periods, with a particular emphasis on the Middle Ages. She wrote and illustrated several titles that explored the lives of ordinary people, the construction of buildings, and the workings of medieval society. Her approach combined detailed, accurate drawings with accessible text, making complex historical subjects understandable for children.

Among her notable works are The Castle Story, which explains the building and function of medieval castles, and The Luttrell Village, which reconstructs the life of a medieval English village based on the Luttrell Psalter. Sancha also wrote and illustrated Castle Story and Knight Story, both published by Oxford University Press, which are recognised for their educational value and use in schools.

Sancha’s books have been used as resources in classrooms and libraries to support the teaching of history at primary level. Her illustrations are characterised by their clarity and attention to historical detail, reflecting her commitment to accuracy and education.

Sheila Sancha’s The Luttrell Village was published by Collins in 1982.