The literary world is in mourning following the passing of Allan Ahlberg, the celebrated children’s author and visionary behind the beloved ITV series ‘Woof!’, who has died at the age of 87 after a battle with cancer. His significant contributions to children’s literature have left an indelible mark on generations.

Allan Ahlberg, often in collaboration with his late first wife, illustrator Janet Ahlberg, crafted over 150 books that enchanted young readers worldwide. Together, they created a magical universe through 37 shared titles, becoming synonymous with imaginative storytelling.

Among their most iconic works are classics such as ‘Each Peach Pear Plum’, ‘The Jolly Postman’, and the wonderfully whimsical ‘Funnybones’. These books, filled with warmth and wit, helped to shape the early reading experiences of countless individuals, establishing the Ahlbergs as pioneering figures in the genre.

A standout creation, ‘Woof!’, which tells the delightful tale of a boy who intermittently transforms into a dog, transitioned seamlessly to television, becoming a popular ITV series. Running from 1989 to 1997, the show featured various actors portraying the main character, Eric Banks, and expanded its cast to include figures like Anthony Head.

Upon news of Allan Ahlberg’s death, a torrent of author tributes and heartfelt messages flooded social media platforms, underscoring the deep affection and respect he commanded. Fellow British authors and readers alike shared anecdotes and expressed profound sadness, reflecting on the joy and wisdom his stories brought.

Acclaimed children’s writer Michael Rosen eloquently captured the sentiment, stating, “Goodbye Allan. You were a pioneer of great children’s literature, both in picture books and poetry. You were clever, funny and wise. My children loved your books. So did and so DO I.” Other fans echoed similar sentiments, recalling cherished childhood memories spent with his books and the ‘Woof!’ series.

Before his illustrious writing career blossomed, Ahlberg led a varied professional life, working as a postman, plumber, and even a gravedigger, before becoming a teacher. It was his first wife, Janet, who serendipitously “turned a key” in his back, as he described it, by asking him to write a story for her to illustrate, thus igniting his extraordinary journey into authorship in his late thirties.

The creative partnership with Janet also extended into their family life, with their daughter, Jessica, continuing their artistic legacy as an illustrator. After Janet’s passing from breast cancer in 1994, Allan Ahlberg found companionship again, marrying his second wife, Vanessa. His remarkable life and enduring literary contributions will forever be celebrated as a cornerstone of modern children’s literature.