Friday’s library snapshot … Kate Greenaway

Kate Greenaway was born in Hoxton, London in 1846. Daughter of a prominent wood-engraver and artist, her talent was recognised early, and she received excellent art training at local schools and at London’s Slade School.  It was her childhood holidays at her aunt’s house in Rolleston, Nottinghamshire, which instilled her love for nature and of flowers. Soon after the publication of her first book Under the window in 1878 Kate moved to Hampstead, London where she lived until her death in 1901.
Kate Greenaway was a pioneer in creating children’s books intended to delight rather than to instruct the young reader.  Her success was instantaneous, her fame was widespread, and her popularity has continued to this day.

Further reading The Kate Greenaway Treasury introduction by Ruth Hill Viguers.