Picture a British storyteller who conjured a magical world of witches and lovable elephant families—meet Jill Murphy! Born in London in 1949, this beloved children’s author and illustrator captured hearts with her enchanting The Worst Witch series and heartwarming picture books. With a knack for blending humor, relatability, and a touch of magic, Murphy’s stories have delighted generations, proving that even the clumsiest witch can shine.
From her early days stapling homemade storybooks to creating timeless classics, Murphy’s journey is a testament to creativity and perseverance. Her tales of Mildred Hubble’s misadventures and the chaotic Large family resonate with readers young and old, making her a cherished name in children’s literature.
The Making of Jill Murphy
Jill Murphy was born on July 5, 1949, in London to a book-loving mother, Reeney, and an Irish engineer father, Eric. Growing up in Chessington, Surrey, she had a classic 1950s childhood, filled with imaginative play and a passion for storytelling. By age six, she was crafting her own illustrated books, stapling them together with dreams of seeing her name on a shelf. Her time at a strict Ursuline Convent school in Wimbledon, where she felt like an outsider, inspired the rebellious spirit of her most famous character, Mildred Hubble. After leaving school at 16, Murphy honed her artistic skills at Chelsea and Croydon Art Schools, later spending a year in Togo, West Africa, where she continued writing.
Jill Murphy’s Unforgettable Stories
Murphy’s debut, The Worst Witch (1974), introduced readers to Mildred Hubble, a delightfully accident-prone witch navigating Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches. Written when Murphy was just 18 and published at 24, the book drew from her own school experiences, with Mildred mirroring her own plaited, awkward younger self. The series, spanning eight books, including The Worst Witch Strikes Again (1980) and First Prize for the Worst Witch (2018), blends humor, friendship, and the triumph of the underdog, selling millions worldwide.
Beyond witches, Murphy’s picture books shine with warmth. The Large Family series, starting with Five Minutes’ Peace (1986), follows the chaotic yet lovable elephant family, capturing the universal struggles of parenthood with wit. Selling over five million copies, it’s been translated into 19 languages. Her Bear Family books, like Peace at Last (1980) and Whatever Next! (1983), offer cozy tales of everyday adventures, while The Last Noo-Noo (1995) won the Nestlé Smarties Prize for its quirky monster protagonist. Murphy’s illustrations, rich with detail and expression, complement her relatable narratives, making every page a delight.
Why Jill Murphy Matters
Jill Murphy’s stories have left an indelible mark on children’s literature, inspiring readers with themes of resilience and self-acceptance. The Worst Witch paved the way for magical school stories, predating Hogwarts by decades, and its adaptations for television, stage, and a 2020 Olivier Award-winning musical prove its enduring appeal. Her picture books, embraced by parents and children alike, celebrate the messiness of family life, offering comfort and laughter. Despite battling cancer, Murphy continued creating until her passing in 2021, leaving a legacy of joy and imagination that continues to enchant.
- Born: July 5, 1949, London, England
- Key Works: The Worst Witch, Five Minutes’ Peace, Peace at Last
- Awards: Nestlé Smarties Prize, Sheffield Children’s Book Prize
- Died: August 18, 2021, Cornwall, England
Snag The Worst Witch or Five Minutes’ Peace and dive into Jill Murphy’s magical, heartwarming world!