Jill Murphy (1949–2021) was a British author and illustrator renowned for her popular children's books. She began her publishing career in 1974, achieving widespread recognition for the "Worst Witch" series, which centered on a young witch navigating a magical academy, and the "Large Family" picture books, which depicted the humorous daily life of an elephant family. Her works achieved millions in sales and were adapted into television programs and stage productions. Murphy's early life in Surrey, her Catholic upbringing, and her interest in boarding school stories influenced her writing, particularly the "Worst Witch" series, for which she herself served as a model for the protagonist. Despite initial rejections from publishers concerned about the magical theme, "The Worst Witch" became a significant success. Murphy continued to write and illustrate, eventually dedicating herself to writing full-time after the success of "The Worst Witch Strikes Again" in 1980. Her "Large Family" series also garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, with "Five Minutes Peace" selling millions worldwide and being translated into numerous languages.

Jill Murphy's most famous creation, "The Worst Witch," began its journey while she was still a student. The series chronicles the adventures of Mildred Hubble, an accident-prone student at Miss Cackle's Academy for Witches, a setting inspired by Murphy's own experiences at boarding school. Murphy drew from her own life, even admitting to being the model for Mildred. After facing publisher skepticism about a school for witches, the first book was finally published in 1974 by Allison & Busby. It achieved immediate success, selling out its initial print run and leading to a series of sequels. The "Worst Witch" books have sold millions worldwide and have been adapted into multiple television series, a film, and a stage musical that received an Olivier Award.

Beyond the magical realm of witches, Jill Murphy also gained significant acclaim for her "Large Family" series of picture books. These stories humorously detail the domestic lives of an elephant family, capturing the chaos and warmth of everyday family interactions. The first book in the series, "Five Minutes Peace," published in 1986, became a global bestseller, selling millions of copies and being translated into 19 languages. Another installment, "All in One Piece," earned Murphy a commendation for the Greenaway Medal. The "Large Family" series has also been adapted into a television series, further extending its reach and popularity.

“I had a classic 1950s childhood.”

“My mum was at home, because in those days that's what mums did. My dad worked in an aircraft factory. He was up really early in the morning, came home exhausted at night and I didn't really see him.”

“They said children would be frightened about a school for witches...”

“They accepted it immediately, and printed 5,000 copies, and I remember wondering how many aunts and uncles I had, and what we would do with the rest.”

“immediately got a lot of fan letters and the whole thing took off like a rocket”