Hilary McKay
Hilary McKay writes novels for children that often feature eccentric and deeply endearing characters and describe the escapades and traumas of family life in hilarious detail. She is well known for her series about the Casson family and also The Exiles. Her latest novel The Skylarks’ War (winner of The Costa Children’s Book Award 2018) brings us the wonderful character of Clarry, a young girl who shows great strength in the face of adversity and is unfailingly kind. Set against the brutal backdrop of the First World War we are drawn into the vivid world of this story, of Clarry, Peter, Rupert and Simon the Bony One, of love, family and loss.
- Costa Children's Book Award 2018
- Whitbread Children’s Book Award 2002
- Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize 1992
Praise for The Skylarks' War
“This belongs among the classic of children’s literature . . . Funny, sad, warm, it is about growing up and finding what you love, intellectually and emotionally.”
Did you know…
Hilary is the eldest of four girls and she grew up in Boston, Lincolnshire in a household of avid readers.
When asked how she became a writer Hilary says:
“I started by being a reader. I don't think there is a big jump between being a reader and being a writer. I liked books, and so I wanted to join in the creating of them.”Hilary lives in Derby with her family. When she is not writing she loves walking, reading and having friends to stay.
Find out more on Hilary McKay's website
What's been happening with Hilary McKay?
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A-Z of Artists
Hilary McKay and The Skylarks' War
Award-winning author Hilary McKay wrote the brilliant book The Skylarks' War. Find out more here.
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Letters from Lockdown
We have invited our artists to write a short letter to inspire children to write their own lockdown letters. Take a look at the whole collection and find out about our competition to win great prizes!