Jane Elizabeth Clarke (born in 1954) is an English writer of children's books and poetry. Her best known books include Gilbert the Great illustrated by Charles Fuge, and Neon Leon[1] illustrated by Britta Teckentrup. Jane has published more than 80 books, including the Dr. Kittycat series for Oxford University Press, and children's reading scheme books used in schools.[2]CBeebies Bedtime Stories have featured two of Jane's books, Stuck in the Mud (read by Dolly Parton)[3] and Knight Time (read by Jake Wood).[4]Stuck in the Mud is also featured with a US Scholastic Book Club edition which includes a CD audio edition. This audio edition is produced by Beatstreet Productions, NYC, directed by Cheryl Smith, read by Cassandra Morris and features music composed by Michael Abbott.
Jane Clarke is also a team writer on three different popular series for young readers. Dinosaur Cove (series created by Working Partners Ltd. and published by Oxford University Press),[5]Puddle the Naughtiest Puppy (series created by Working Partners Ltd. and published by Ladybird Books Ltd.)[6] and Pet Hotel (created by Random House Children's Books and published by Red Fox.)[7]
Early life
Jane was born 17 December 1954 and brought up in Kettering, Northamptonshire, England. Her parents were Jim and June Andrew. She was a pupil at Hawthorn Road County Primary School in Kettering. In 1972 Jane completed her secondary study at the Kettering High School for Girls. From 1972 to 1975 Jane studied at the University of Birmingham where she earned a combined Bachelor of Arts with honours in archaeology and history. In 1981 she completed a PhD in archaeology from University College London.
Awards
Sheffield Children's Book Award – Picture Book Category (Gilbert the Great) 2006, Highly Commended[8]
Norfolk Library and Information Service Children's Book Award – Younger Category (Gilbert the Great) 2006, Bronze Star Winner
Nottingham Children's Book Award for 3-5's (Stuck in the Mud) 2008[9]
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