Toppsta - Childrens Books – Reviews

The Large Family books by Jill Murphy are modern picture book classics, loved by our reviewers for their warm and funny depictions of the chaos of family life.

The first book about Mrs Large and her brood - Five Minutes Peace - was published over thirty years ago. It tells the story of Mrs Large - the elephant who just needs five minutes peace and quiet away from her boisterous children. We can all relate to Mrs Large, taking herself off for a bath for some much-needed quiet time and being constantly interrupted by her demanding and noisy baby elephants!

After four more picture books about Mr and Mrs Large, a CBeebies TV show and a series of spin-off story books, these family favourites have sold millions of copies worldwide and are still popular with little ones and their parents today.

Jill Murphy’s books, which also include the much-loved The Worst Witch series and her first picture book Peace At Last, have won multiple awards and sold millions of copies worldwide. 

All the Large Family books in order:

Book 1: Five Minute's Peace (1986)
Book 2: All in One Piece (1987)
Book 3: A Piece of Cake (1989)
Book 4: A Quiet Night In (1993)
Book 5: Mr. Large in Charge (2005)

All the Large Family story books in order:
Book 1: Laura Bakes a Cake (2008)
Book 2: Luke Tidies Up (2008)
Book 3: Lester Learns a Lesson (2008)
Book 4: Lucy Meets Mr Chilly (2008)
Book 5: Grandpa in Trouble (2009)
Book 6: Sebastian's Sleepover (2009)