Written by Jim Eldridge, illustrated by me. Collins Big Cat. Britain, 1940, The Blitz. For 12-year-old Ellie and her brothers, it’s not just about surviving the bombing, it’s trying to solve the mystery of the enemy within. Who’s attacking local people, and why?
Some images are simply untouchable.
When I come across them, I feel I have to take a step back. As an illustrator, I just want to pay homage to them and ensure they remain recognisable. Perhaps the most iconic image of the night bombing of London is a photograph of St Paul's Cathedral in the smoke, with the outline of the city looking like a cardboard cut-out. I simply redrew and painted it, changing or moving very few elements. It was perfect.
“I’m scared …” Sammy whimpered. “I’m going to die.”
Nazis smashed up their shop and took away Greta’s younger brother who was working there.
