Picture a British storyteller who weaves magic into the English countryside, crafting tales that captivate young hearts and minds—meet Steve Augarde! Born in Birmingham in 1950, this multifaceted author, illustrator, and musician has enchanted readers with his vivid storytelling and artistic flair. From the award-winning Touchstone Trilogy to over seventy picture books, Augarde’s creative genius brings whimsical worlds to life, blending fantasy with heartfelt narratives.
Augarde’s journey is as colorful as his stories. A semi-pro jazz musician and paper engineer, he’s not just a writer but a creator who paints with words and illustrations. His work, rooted in the charm of the UK’s West Country, resonates with readers through its rich imagery and relatable characters. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this remarkable storyteller!
The Making of Steve Augarde
Steve Augarde was born on October 3, 1950, in Birmingham, England, where his early years sparked a lifelong passion for creativity. He honed his artistic skills at Yeovil School of Art, Somerset College of Art, and Rolle Teacher Training College, laying the foundation for his illustrative career. Before becoming a celebrated author, Augarde worked as a gardener, motorcycle dispatch rider, and even a telemarketer, infusing his varied experiences into his storytelling. His love for music also shaped his path, as he played double bass for a jazz group called the Gents, adding rhythm to his creative life.
Augarde’s entry into children’s literature began with illustration, where his bold, cartoon-style artwork caught the eye of publishers. He illustrated for BBC’s animated series Bump, about a clumsy elephant, and designed pop-up books with intricate paper engineering. These early ventures set the stage for his transition to writing, where his unique voice would soon shine.
Steve Augarde’s Unforgettable Stories
Augarde’s literary breakthrough came with The Various (2003), the first book in the Touchstone Trilogy, which won a Bronze Nestlé Smarties Prize. This fantasy series follows Midge, a young girl who discovers the Various, a secretive tribe of fairies facing extinction. Set in the lush West Country, the trilogy—The Various, Celandine, and Winter Wood—blends gritty realism with subtle magic, depicting fairies as reclusive, non-magical tribes. Augarde’s evocative prose and intricate world-building make the series a standout in young adult fantasy.
Beyond the trilogy, Augarde’s X-Isle (2010) showcases his versatility. This dystopian thriller, often compared to Lord of the Flies, follows boys fighting for survival on a flood-ravaged island. Its dark, edgy narrative contrasts with the trilogy’s whimsy, proving Augarde’s range. He’s also penned over seventy picture books, like Tractor Factory, which delight younger readers with interactive elements and vibrant illustrations. His storytelling, whether fantastical or grim, is marked by vivid characters and a deep connection to nature.
Augarde’s style is a tapestry of his artistic and musical talents. His illustrations, with dark lines and bright colors, mirror his narrative approach—detailed yet accessible. Themes of courage, friendship, and environmental stewardship weave through his work, resonating with readers of all ages.
Why Steve Augarde Matters
Steve Augarde’s impact on children’s and young adult literature lies in his ability to craft timeless stories that balance wonder and reality. The Touchstone Trilogy has been praised as a modern classic, with reviewers calling it “magical, unexpected, touching, gripping” for its fresh take on fairy lore. His work inspires young readers to explore their imaginations while grappling with complex themes like survival and identity. Augarde’s diverse career—spanning writing, illustration, and music—sets him apart as a creative polymath whose influence endures.
His stories, rooted in the British countryside, celebrate the beauty and fragility of nature, encouraging readers to cherish their surroundings. By blending traditional storytelling with innovative twists, Augarde has carved a niche in UK children’s literature, earning a devoted following and critical acclaim.
- Born: October 3, 1950, Birmingham, England
- Key Works: Touchstone Trilogy (The Various, Celandine, Winter Wood), X-Isle, Tractor Factory
- Awards: Bronze Nestlé Smarties Prize (2003) for The Various
- Fun Fact: Augarde provided artwork and music for BBC’s Bump series!
Snag The Various and dive into Steve Augarde’s enchanting world of fairies and adventure!