Picture a British storyteller who spun tales from a chilly caravan into global sensations—meet Tom Percival! This children’s author and illustrator has enchanted young readers with vibrant picture books like Ruby’s Worry and thrilling series like Skulduggery Pleasant. With a knack for blending heartfelt stories with vivid art, Percival’s work celebrates emotions, diversity, and the magic of being yourself.
Born from humble roots, Percival’s journey from a gaslit childhood to literary stardom is as inspiring as his stories. His books, translated into over 20 languages, tackle big feelings with a playful touch, making him a beloved figure in children’s literature.
The Making of Tom Percival
Growing up in a caravan in South Shropshire, Tom Percival’s early life was anything but ordinary. Without electricity or heating, he read by gaslight, diving into Sheila McCullagh’s Tim and the Hidden People series, where a magical cat named Tobias sparked his imagination. These formative years in a remote, rugged setting fueled his love for storytelling and drawing. After studying graphic design in South Wales, Percival dabbled in advertising but quickly realized his heart lay in creating worlds for children. His illustration career kicked off with projects like designing Halloween merchandise and creating characters for Aardman animations, setting the stage for his literary leap.
Tom Percival’s Unforgettable Stories
Percival’s picture books and series are a vibrant blend of emotional depth and whimsical art. His Big Bright Feelings series, including Perfectly Norman, Ruby’s Worry, and Ravi’s Roar, tackles themes like self-confidence, anxiety, and anger with colorful illustrations and relatable characters. Ruby’s Worry, nominated for the Kate Greenaway Medal, follows a girl learning to manage her anxieties, resonating with kids and parents alike. The Invisible poignantly explores poverty and societal oversight, showcasing Percival’s knack for addressing tough topics with sensitivity.
Beyond picture books, Percival’s middle-grade series, like Little Legends and Dream Defenders, weave adventure with emotional growth. His work as an illustrator shines in the Skulduggery Pleasant series, where his cover art brought Derek Landy’s quirky characters to life. Percival’s style—bold, expressive, and warm—invites readers into worlds where feelings are celebrated, and every child feels seen.
His 2020 animation Goodbye Rainclouds for BBC Children in Need highlighted unsung heroes, further cementing his commitment to storytelling with purpose. With over 1.6 million copies of his Big Bright Feelings series sold, Percival’s stories are a global phenomenon, sparking conversations about mental health and self-acceptance.
Why Tom Percival Matters
Tom Percival’s impact on children’s literature lies in his ability to make complex emotions accessible to young readers. His books serve as gentle guides, helping kids navigate feelings like worry, anger, or invisibility with empathy and humor. By championing diversity and individuality, Percival’s stories empower children to embrace their uniqueness, making him a vital voice in today’s world. His work with organizations like the National Literacy Trust and Read for Good amplifies his mission to promote reading for pleasure, especially in underserved communities.
From his caravan days to international acclaim, Percival’s journey inspires aspiring creatives, proving that imagination can thrive in the toughest circumstances. His legacy is one of connection, creativity, and compassion, lighting up bookshelves and hearts worldwide.
- Born: South Shropshire, UK
- Key Works: Ruby’s Worry, Perfectly Norman, Skulduggery Pleasant (illustrator), The Invisible
- Awards: Kate Greenaway Medal nominee (Ruby’s Worry), Carnegie Medal nominee (The Wrong Shoes, 2025)
- Fun Fact: Percival is also a musician and animator, showcasing his polymath spirit.
Snag Ruby’s Worry or The Invisible and dive into Tom Percival’s heartwarming world of big feelings and bright stories!