As Animalia turns 40, its author reflects on its extraordinary success
Graeme Base's lavishly illustrated alliterative alphabet book has captured the imaginations of generations of children around the world since it was published four decades ago.
In 1986, Graeme Base, a 28-year-old illustrator, published his second picture book, Animalia, illustrated in his distinctive baroque style. Despite the questionable necessity of another A-B-C book, his publisher, Bob Sessions, took a chance on it. The book's initial success was foreshadowed by the rapid sales of artworks exhibited in the lead-up to its release.
Inspired by the unexpected financial windfall, Base and his wife, Robyn, used the money to travel the world. Their extensive backpacking adventure culminated in a chance encounter with the book's publisher, Paul Gottlieb, at the Bologna Book Fair. This meeting led to Animalia's American publication and subsequent worldwide popularity.
The book has sold over 5 million copies, with recent anniversary editions and a colouring book being celebrated in 2026.
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