The History of the Children’s Novelty Book With Dr Ian Alcock

Alongside conventional children’s books, where pictures and stories entertain and educate, there are novelty formats, where pictures transform themselves, come to life on the page, pop up off the page, break into sound or invite interactive participation through an array of gimmicks. Tens of millions of children have lifted flaps to solve the Where’s Spot? conundrum, or peeped through the page holes in The Very Hungry Caterpillar. They can seem like the latest thing, but children have had novelty books for as long as they have had books.

Dr Ian Alcock has published articles on the early history of novelty books. His illustrated talk will plot their development from the 18th century and is appropriate for children aged 9-99.

Tickets are allocated by a ballot system. Please email enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk or call 01736 364474 to be entered into the ballot for a ticket. The ballot closes on Monday 12th February. Entry to this event is free but donations are welcomed to help support Morrab Library (suggested £5).Refreshments will be provided after the talk.