
Leigh Hobbs, 2016 Children's Laureate, has created a bevy of well-loved children's characters, including Old Tom, Mr Chicken, Horrible Harriet, and the Freaks of 4F. Despite Hobbs having what he describes as an "allergy to cute", there is a warmth to every Hobbs book that speaks to parents and children alike.
Hobbs' warmth and humour are present as ever in Old Tom: Man of Mystery. Angela Throgmorton has asked Old Tom to start helping with the household chores. Despite Tom's incredible (and relatable) feats of avoidance and a cat-and-mouse caper through the night, Angela's love for Tom shines through, even when he's at his naughtiest.
The exhibition showcases Hobbs' original pen and gouache illustrations for Old Tom: Man of Mystery, with appearances from some of his other characters. Giving insight into Hobbs' artistic process, never-before-seen sketches and cartoons feature among Hobbs' illustrative works.
End the exhibition with a self-guided scavenger hunt through the Library, hot on the trail of the Man of Mystery.