Nostalgia is a powerful feeling, and few things evoke childhood memories quite like the charmingly illustrated stories of the Ladybird Well Loved Tales the 606D series. Launched in the 1960s, these classic books were a staple in the libraries of countless children, enchanting generation after generation with tales of magic, adventure, and bravery. As we turn the pages of these beloved books, we are transported back to a simpler time, where we can revel in the delightful narratives that have stood the test of time. We take a look at the Ladybird Well Loved Tales series featuring the 27 original titles, author and the artists.

Well-Loved Tales was first published in the United Kingdom by Wills & Hepworth, a company initially known for its line of educational books. It was their mission to create high-quality, affordable books for children that would entertain, educate, and inspire a love for reading. In 1964, they released Cinderella, the first of the Well-Loved Tales, and the series quickly gained popularity. 27 books were published over the next 10 years with final book The Musicians of Bremen published in 1974.

Other books in the series come from classic stories that have endured the test of time. From the Brothers Grimm to Hans Christian Andersen, these tales have been carefully curated to provide a diverse range of stories, including “Cinderella,” “The Three Little Pigs,” “Sleeping Beauty,” and “The Gingerbread Man.” Each book features a simplified narrative written by Vera Southgate, making them accessible and engaging for young readers while still preserving the essence of the original tales. Her talent for retelling classic stories particularly in the realm of fairy tales and folklore, have left a lasting impact on the literary world.

The title page of each book had the words retold by VERA SOUTHGATE, M.A., B.Comm.

Southgate’s retellings, accompanied by captivating illustrations from talented artists such as Eric Winter, Robert Lumley, and others, struck a chord with both children and their parents. The combination of her storytelling prowess and the beautiful artwork made the Well-Loved Tales a popular series that has stood the test of time.

The 27 Books in Well Loved Tales 606D Series – including Year of Publication and the Illustrators

1. Cinderella (1964) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
2. The Elves and the Shoemaker (1965) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
3. Sleeping Beauty (1965) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
4. Jack and the Beanstalk (1965) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
5. The Three Little Pigs (1965) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
6. Dick Whittington and his Cat (1966) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
7. The Gingerbread Boy (1966) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
8. The Little Red Hen (1966) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
9. The Princess and the Pea (1967) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
10. Puss in Boots (1967) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
11. Rumpelstiltskin (1968) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
12. Beauty and the Beast (1968) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
13. The Sly Fox and the Little Red Hen (1968) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
14. Rapunzel (1968) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
15. The Three Billy-goats Gruff (1968) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
16. The Wolf and the Seven Little Kids (1969) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
17. Snow White and Rose Red (1969) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
18. Chicken Licken (1969) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
19. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1969) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
20. The Enormous Turnip (1970) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
21. Goldilocks and the Three Bears (1971) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
22. The Magic Porridge Pot (1971) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
23. The Big Pancake (1972) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
24. Little Red Riding Hood (1972) – Illustrated by Eric Winter
25. The Old Woman and her Pig (1973) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley
26. The Princess and the Frog (1973) – Illustrated by Capaldi
27. The Musicians of Bremen (1974) – Illustrated by Robert Lumley and John Berry

Over the years, the Ladybird Books series 606D has become a beloved part of many childhoods, with the books often passed down through families. The series has been continuously updated and reprinted, ensuring its longevity and continued relevance. They represent a beautiful marriage of art, storytelling, and nostalgia.

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Ladybird Fly Away Home – lots of great information on all Ladybird books including Well Loved Tales