More than 1,000 books from the personal library of the late Raymond Briggs, the beloved author and illustrator behind 'The Snowman', have been put on sale at a charity shop in East Sussex. The extensive collection, donated by Briggs' estate following his passing in 2022, is now available for public purchase at the Oxfam bookshop in Hove, offering fans and collectors a rare glimpse into his creative influences.
The diverse assortment of books reflects Briggs' wide-ranging interests, encompassing cartoon annuals, comprehensive illustration reference guides, and even a first edition signed by fellow author Graham Rawle. Martin Hill, a dedicated volunteer who meticulously catalogued the collection, remarked on the unique opportunity it presents, stating it provides "a wonderful glimpse of the visual and intellectual world of one of Britain's most distinctive illustrators."
Raymond Briggs, who resided near Westmeston in East Sussex, rose to international prominence with his iconic children's story, 'The Snowman', first published in 1978. Its adaptation into a Bafta award-winning animated television film four years later cemented its place as a cherished Christmas classic. Beyond 'The Snowman', Briggs was also celebrated for his illustrations in 'Fungus the Bogeyman', 'When the Wind Blows', and 'Ethel & Ernest', among many other works that have collectively sold over 8.5 million copies worldwide in 24 languages.
The personal library spans various genres, including illustration, cartoons, comics, and social history. Enthusiasts will find works by renowned artists and writers such as Aubrey Beardsley, E. H. Shepard, Charles Schulz, Edward Gorey, and Posy Simmonds. Hill highlighted the fascinating breadth of the collection, noting how it reveals the connections between Briggs' own creations and the artists and books that surrounded him daily, from celebrated illustrators to more unexpected topics like ageing and domestic life.
This sale represents a unique chance for the public to own a piece of literary history and gain deeper insight into the inspirations of one of the UK's most cherished storytellers. All proceeds from the sale will go directly to Oxfam, supporting the charity's vital work.