Bracknell

Renowned children's author and illustrator Ian Beck visited Ascot Heath and Bracknell libraries on Wednesday, April 4.

Ian Beck, who is known for his bestselling children's picture books, including versions of Peter and the Wolf and The Little Mermaid, visited Ascot Heath Library at 10.30am and Bracknell Library at 2.00pm.

During his visit he entertained children aged between four and seven-years-old and signed copies of his books.

Ian projected huge images from his book, Peter and the Wolf, onto the wall in the community centre and narrated the story to his fascinated audience.

The children were asked to look for the hidden pictures in the story and howl whenever they spotted the wolf.

Ian was born in Hove, Sussex, in 1947, and studied illustration and graphic design at the Brighton College of Art where he graduated in 1968 and then became a freelance illustrator.

His work frequently appears in magazines and adverts and has also included the cover for Elton John's Goodbye Yellow Brick Road album.

Ian has had many exhibitions of his work, and regularly gives talks and lectures on the creation and development of his books.

Ruth Burgess, Head of Libraries and Information, said: "We were delighted to welcome Ian Beck to Ascot Heath and Bracknell libraries.

"Ian makes old stories so lively and fun. He put on a great show and really involved and entertained the children!"

Visit the Council's website: www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/libraries for more information about the library services and forthcoming events.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council