Ladybird man who taught Britain to read with inspiring Peter and Jane books
By
Victoria Moore
Last updated at 1:59 AM on 04th December 2008
Peeping out of a wigwam set up on a neatly mowed lawn Jane in her cheery yellow cardigan, Peter in a splendid Red Indian head-dress the two children invited young friends to come and Play with us.
Generations of children did just that.
For this was the first title in the Ladybird Key Words books, in which a brother and sister and their affectionate spaniel Pat explored the pleasures of a suburban childhood.
For millions who grew up in the Sixties and Seventies, these books, with their beautiful illustrations and clear, simple language, were their introduction to the world of reading.
But their creation was down to a driven entrepreneur called Douglas Keen, whose early life was far from the cosy domesticity of Peter and Janes.
Abandoned by his own father, it spurred him on to a discipline of self-improvement that continued right up until his recent death at the age of 95.......
Complete article, pictures & comments here:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1091826/Ladybird-man-taught-Britain-read-inspiring-Peter-Jane-books.html
