Our favourite books by Allan Ahlberg

Allan Ahlberg wrote over 150 books in his long career, shaping several generations’ childhoods. He and his wife Janet created much-loved classics such as Peepo’ and The Jolly Postman’, which engage and delight children from the very first page. Here are some of our favourite books by him.

  • The Baby’s Catalogue

    by Allan Ahlberg, illustrated by Janet Ahlberg 

    2012 0 to 7 years 

    • Classics
    • Picture books

    This book’s packed with lots of baby pictures and baby items. It’s great for learning and making up stories – this fantastic book will lead to lots of talk with your child.

  • Each Peach Pear Plum

    by Allan Ahlberg, illustrated by Janet Ahlberg 

    1978 0 to 7 years 

    • Classics
    • Picture books
    • Poetry and rhyme

    This classic book from author and illustrator team Janet and Allan Ahlberg is a real favourite with families

  • Peepo!

    by Allan Ahlberg, illustrated by Janet Ahlberg 

    2011 0 to 4 years 

    • Classics
    • Picture books
    • Poetry and rhyme
  • Under The Table

    by Allan Ahlberg, illustrated by Bruce Ingman 

    2023 2 to 7 years 

    • Funny
    • Picture books

    It’s a normal day, just like any other, when little Elsie Cannon runs outside to tell her Dad that not only has an egg mysteriously appeared in her egg cup… but there’s an elephant hiding under the table! How many more new friends will she find?

  • Starting School

    by Allan Ahlberg and Janet Ahlberg, illustrated by Janet Ahlberg 

    2013 4 to 7 years 

    • Picture books

    Starting School by Janet and Allan Ahlberg is an enchanting picture book for reassuring children who are about to start school for the very first time.

  • Mrs Wobble the Waitress

    by Allan Ahlberg, illustrated by Janet Ahlberg 

    2014 2 to 9 years 

    • Classics
    • Funny
    • Picture books

    This cheery and funny tale is another winner in the Happy Families range of stories. Perfect for sharing, it is sure to raise lots of giggles!

  • Funnybones

    by Allan Ahlberg, illustrated by Janet Ahlberg 

    1999 4 to 9 years 

    • Classics
    • Ghost story
    • Picture books

    In the first book of this now classic series, we are taken down the dark, dark street to the dark, dark house and into the dark, dark cellar in which the skeletons live.

  • The Jolly Postman or Other People’s Letters

    by Allan Ahlberg, illustrated by Janet Ahlberg 

    1999 4 to 9 years 

    • Classics
    • Picture books

    Brilliantly designed with lots of little details to spot, this old favourite will be enjoyed time and time again

  • The Jolly Christmas Postman

    by Allan Ahlberg, illustrated by Janet Ahlberg 

    2011 4 to 9 years 

    • Classics
    • Picture books

    Follow our favourite jolly postman as he delivers Christmas cards and gifts to fairytale folk