Julia Donaldson and Peter James recognised in King’s Birthday Honours

Julia Donaldson has been honoured with a Damehood (DBE), after receiving an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in the 2011 Queen's Birthday Honours list for her services to literature and a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 2018. Julia has written some of the world’s best-loved children’s books including Gozzle, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie, and published earlier this year. On 10 September, Julia will publish the much-awaited Gruffalo Granny with illustrator Axel Scheffler, partnering with nine literacy and disability charities to bring the wonderful new story to as many children and families as possible in The National Year of Reading. 

'Receiving this honour has been a very happy surprise. It's really gratifying to have children's books recognised in this way. I'm so grateful for all the enthusiastic support I've had during my career from people in the book world – those in the very many libraries, schools and bookshops I've visited over the years, my wonderful illustrators, the publishers and literacy charities I've been involved with, and of course my readers. Going back further, perhaps my biggest debt of all is to the library which was in walking distance of my childhood home and the librarian who helped me discover the books and authors that I came to love. Without that place and person I probably would never have become a children's writer – let alone a Dame! So I'm making a plea to the government for more libraries and more librarians in our communities and schools, so that the current generation of children can enjoy all the benefits that reading brings.'

Alison Ruane, managing director of Macmillan Children’s Books, said: 'Julia's much-deserved Damehood celebrates a truly extraordinary career. She has written books adored by generations of families and inspired children across the world with musical performances of her stories at festivals, bookshops, schools and theatres. As the top-selling UK author since records began, her dedication to making reading enjoyable for all families – evidenced by the up and coming charity partnerships for Gruffalo Granny – is remarkable.'

‘I'm making a plea to the government for more libraries and more librarians in our communities and schools, so that the current generation of children can enjoy all the benefits that reading brings.’

— Julia Donaldson

Peter James has been awarded an OBE for services to literature and charity. Peter is best known for his crime thrillers featuring Detective Superintendent Roy Grace. With a total of twenty-one Sunday Times number ones, his books have sold more than 23 million copies worldwide and have been translated into thirty-eight languages, as well as adapted for TV and theatre. Through his charity work, he works with organizations including the Sussex Police Charitable Trust and the RSPCA Brighton and East Grinstead Branch.

Lucy Hale, managing director, Pan, said: 'We are absolutely thrilled to see Peter James recognized with an OBE in The King’s Birthday Honours list. Peter is one of the reigning legends of UK crime fiction, and this prestigious honour is a richly deserved testament to his services to literature. For decades, Peter has been a towering fixture on the bestseller lists, capturing the imaginations of millions of readers worldwide. From his phenomenal DSI Roy Grace series, to his tally of more than 40 awards, Peter’s impact on the literary landscape is immeasurable. Everyone at Pan is immensely proud to publish him, and we join his millions of fans in celebrating this fantastic milestone.'

Also among the honours is Kevin Sinfield, who has been awarded a Knighthood for services to rugby league and charity. The Leeds Rhinos legend is being recognized for his fundraising efforts to support those living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Alongside his sporting achievements, Kevin co-authored two profoundly moving books with his close friend, the late Rob Burrow: the bestselling celebrations of friendship With You Every Step and Try, both published by Macmillan Children’s Books. Kevin continues his tireless advocacy this autumn with his next fundraising challenge, running seven ultramarathons in seven days.

These honours carry a special significance this year as the UK celebrates the National Year of Reading, a nationwide campaign designed to inspire more people to make reading a regular part of their lives.