Liz Pichon Books in Order

Picture a British storyteller who doodled her way into the hearts of kids worldwide—meet Liz Pichon! With her wildly popular Tom Gates series, this author-illustrator has turned everyday school life into a laugh-out-loud adventure, blending quirky humor, relatable characters, and vibrant sketches. Her unique style has not only sold millions of books but also sparked a TV show, proving she’s a creative force to reckon with.

Born in London in 1963, Liz Pichon’s journey from art school to global fame is as colorful as her illustrations. Her ability to capture the chaos and joy of childhood has made her a beloved figure in children’s literature, earning her awards and a fanbase that spans 47 countries.

The Making of Liz Pichon

Liz Pichon was born on August 16, 1963, in London, England, to parents Francis and Joan Pichon. Growing up in Hampstead, she attended Brookfield Primary School in Highgate, where her love for drawing blossomed. She later studied graphic design at the Camberwell School of Art, a foundation that shaped her vibrant visual style. Before writing, Liz worked as an art director at Jive Records from 1987 to 1990, designing album covers. Her freelance illustration work adorned products like towels and greeting cards, but illustrating children’s books ignited her passion for storytelling.

Her early work included illustrating books like Twilight Rhymes Moonlight Verse, which won a 1998 National Parenting Publications Award. These experiences inspired Liz to write and illustrate her own stories, starting with Square Eyed Pat in 2004. Her knack for blending art and narrative set the stage for her biggest success: the Tom Gates series.

Liz Pichon’s Unforgettable Stories

Liz Pichon’s Tom Gates series, launched in 2011 with The Brilliant World of Tom Gates, redefined children’s fiction with its satirical, doodle-packed comedy. The series follows Tom, a mischievous schoolboy navigating homework, annoying sisters, and band practice with his mates. Written as Tom’s diary, complete with scribbles and teacher comments, the books feel like a kid’s secret notebook. With 23 titles, the series has sold 16.5 million copies and been translated into 44 languages.

Beyond Tom Gates, Liz wrote and illustrated picture books like The Very Ugly Bug, a charming twist on the Ugly Duckling tale, and The Three Horrid Pigs and the Big Friendly Wolf, a finalist for the 2012 Red House Children’s Book Award. Her standalone novel Shoe Wars is a gadget-filled adventure that showcases her knack for humor and heart. Liz’s style—bold, cartoonish illustrations paired with witty, relatable narratives—appeals to reluctant readers and inspires creativity.

Her work extends beyond books. The Tom Gates TV series, launched in 2021 on Sky Kids, brought her characters to life, with Liz co-writing and presenting. She also designed record-breaking Children in Need T-shirts in 2022 and 2023, cementing her cultural impact.

Why Liz Pichon Matters

Liz Pichon’s influence on children’s literature is undeniable. Her Tom Gates series has made reading fun for millions, especially for kids who shy away from books. By blending text and illustrations, she creates an immersive experience that feels like a conversation with a friend. Her awards, including the 2011 Roald Dahl Funny Prize and the 2012 Waterstone’s Children’s Book Prize, highlight her ability to connect with young readers.

Her work also inspires creativity. From the Tremendous Tales podcast to the Tom Gates Live stage adaptation, Liz encourages kids to draw, write, and tell their own stories. Her global reach—spanning 47 markets—proves that humor and heart transcend borders, making her a lasting voice in children’s literature.

About Liz Pichon

• Born: August 16, 1963, in London, England
• Key Works: The Brilliant World of Tom Gates, The Very Ugly Bug, Shoe Wars
• Awards: 2011 Roald Dahl Funny Prize, 2012 Waterstone’s Children’s Book Prize, 2021 BAFTA Scotland Award
• Fun Fact: She broke a world record for the Largest Disco Dance in 2017!

Ready to doodle your way through a hilarious adventure? Snag The Brilliant World of Tom Gates and dive into Liz Pichon’s world of fun!