See all 12 coronavirus creations by Sussex author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler

Steyning author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler, the UK’s number one picture book pair, have shown how their beloved characters might respond in times of coronavirus in a extraordinary new set of illustrations and verses. The series of 12 helps parents share important messages about staying safe with their children and is lightening the spirits of families everywhere.

The children’s book favourites responded to the COVID-19 crisis by reimagining many of their much-loved characters and worlds. Axel explained: “Being stuck at home like everyone else, I wondered what would happen to the characters of our books in times of coronavirus and whether they could pass on any helpful tips. I asked Julia whether she could write some little verses to go with the pictures and she did. They are meant as some light-hearted relief in these hard times for many families and a little ‘hello’ from us to our readers and fans. We are thinking about everyone and wishing everyone well.”