Nick Sharratt facts for kids

Nick Sharratt, born on August 9, 1962, is a well-known British author and illustrator of children's books. He is famous for his bright and fun drawings. He has illustrated books for many popular writers, including Jacqueline Wilson and Julia Donaldson. Nick Sharratt was chosen as the official illustrator for World Book Day in 2006.

He has illustrated about 250 books in total. Over 50 of these were for Jacqueline Wilson, including The Lottie Project and The Story of Tracy Beaker. The Story of Tracy Beaker was the most borrowed library book in the UK for the first ten years of the 21st century. Books illustrated by Nick Sharratt and written by Jacqueline Wilson have sold over 40 million copies in the UK. His own picture books have sold more than 10 million copies.

About Nick Sharratt

Early Life and Education

Nick Sharratt was born in Bexleyheath, Greater London, on August 9, 1962. He grew up in different parts of England, including Suffolk, Nottinghamshire, and Manchester. He has three younger brothers and sisters.

He studied art at Manchester Polytechnic, which is now called Manchester Metropolitan University. He also trained in graphic design at St. Martin's School of Art. Nick's art style was inspired by the bright and bold pop art of the 1960s, which he saw when he was a child.

Creating Books and Art

Nick Sharratt creates his own picture books for younger children. He also draws pictures for other children's authors. His illustrations are known for being colorful and playful.

Popular Books and Collaborations

Some of Nick Sharratt's own popular books include Shark in the Park, Ketchup on your Cornflakes?, and Octopus Socktopus. He worked with Pippa Goodhart to create You Choose, which has sold millions of copies.

He also illustrated Pants by Giles Andreae. For Julia Donaldson, he illustrated books like Chocolate Mousse for Greedy Goose and Toddle Waddle. Nick has also written two chapter books for older readers: The Cat and the King and Nice Work for the Cat and the King.

Art on Screen and in Exhibitions

Nick Sharratt's book Shark in the Park has been turned into a touring stage show. His animated drawings were a big part of the popular CBBC TV series The Story of Tracy Beaker and Tracy Beaker Returns.

He also has a traveling art exhibition called 'Pirates, Pants and Wellyphants'. This exhibition has been visited by 140,000 people so far. It allows fans to see his amazing artwork up close.

Awards and Recognition

Nick Sharratt has won many awards for his work. These include the Red House Children's Book Award and the Nestle Children's Book Award. He also won The Right Start Award and the Educational Writers Award.

He has won many local library book prizes in different cities across the UK. In 2002, he was shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal, which is a very important award for children's book illustrators. Nick Sharratt is also a recipient of a gold Blue Peter badge, a special award from the famous children's TV show. His artwork has been shown in exhibitions in Britain, Italy, Japan, and the United States.