Toppsta - Childrens Books – Reviews

Francesca Simon Biography
Francesca Simon is one of the UK's most popular authors, having written over 50 books for children of all ages, her best known series is Horrid Henry which began in 1994.

Francesca grew up in California before studying at Yale and Oxford Universities. She turned down a career as a medievalist and became a successful freelance journalist instead. She was inspired to start writing children's books after reading so many stories to her son Joshua. Her Horrid Henry series, illustrated by Tony Ross, is popular worldwide selling millions of copies and being published in 27 languages. In 2008, Horrid Henry and the Abominable Snowman won the Children’s Book of the Year Award at the Galaxy British Book Awards.

Francesca lives in North London with her family.

Francesca Simon Facts
Francesca loves inspiring young writers and is often a judge for school competitions. She has also been a judge for the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize and the Roald Dahl Funny Prize. 

One of Francesca's proudest moments in her career was in 2009 when she was awarded a Gold Blue Peter badge.

Our favourite Francesca Simon Book Characters
Henry - from the Horrid Henry series
Margaret - from Moody Margaret Strikes Back

Our favourite Francesca Simon Book Quotes
“There's nothing that makes a girl feel less like smiling than some oaf leering at her to change her face” (The Monstrous Child)

“Horrid Henry scowled. Typical teacher. You’re interested enough in what they’re saying to ask a question, and suddenly they don’t want to answer.” (Horrid Henry's Stinkbomb)