This section is about ways of using Quentin Blake’s picture books in the primary classroom, with an emphasis on the illustrations. These books are both written and illustrated by Quentin and the message of the pictures is often as least as powerful as that of the text.  If you focus on the illustrations you will encourage children to discover the story or engage with the characters. This will prompt high-quality discussion as well as an understanding of how illustration works.

Quentin Blake on Teachers TV

Working with the House of Illustration, Quentin has made a 15-minute programme for Teachers' TV Channel. In 'Inspirations - Quentin Blake- The Power of Illustration' Quentin takes us on a journey through the story, ideas and illustration techniques behind two of his own books, Clown and The Green Ship. He also reflects on how words and pictures are two languages which introduce different and sometimes contrasting elements to a story.

The first broadcast is on March 30 2009 at 9.15am.

Teachers TV

Illustration from 'The Green Ship'

You're thinking about the picture which you're doing..enjoying the grstures in the drawing..and then you're also partly being the children, thinking about the sort of reactions that might happen..'

Below are some more ideas for using Quentin Blake books in the classroom. Click on the book titles to find out more...

Clown
Picture-books don’t have to be restricted to the KS1 classroom. Alongside more challenging reading material they offer older children a chance to develop their imaginations and they provide valuable continuity with earlier learning.
Quentin’s only picture-book without any text, Clown, tells the story of a discarded toy clown and his adventures in the big city which end happily.

Mrs Armitage on Wheels

The story of the eccentric Mrs Armitage who decides that her old bicycle can be improved by the addition of a range of gadgets and devices…

The Green Ship

Picture-books don’t have to be restricted to the KS1 classroom.  Alongside more challenging reading material they offer older children a chance to develop their imaginations and they provide valuable continuity with earlier learning.

Mr Magnolia

This 1980s classic picture book is probably to be found in most primary schools and if it’s not in yours it’s easily available. It’s a nonsense poem about the eccentric Mr Magnolia who has a number of unusual possessions including a frog, a toad and a newt, some very fat owls who are learning to hoot and green parakeets who pick holes in his suit. But, as we’re continually reminded, one of his boots is missing.