Enid Blyton (1897 to 1968) remains one of the world’s most beloved children’s authors. With over 800 books and stories to her name, she is famous for classics like:

• Noddy
• Famous Five
• Secret Seven
• Malory Towers

Her works have sold over 600 million copies worldwide and continue to captivate readers of all ages.

A Prolific storyteller

Though she never lived in Dorset, Enid cherished the county, spending holidays with her family on the Isle of Purbeck for over 20 years during the 1940s and beyond. 

She also owned Manor Farm at Stourton Caundle near Sturminster Newton, which she would visit when in the area. This farm was the inspiration for the Famous Five book Five on Finniston Farm. ‘Whispering Island’, the setting for another Famous Five adventure, is thought to be based on Brownsea Island, which can be seen and visited from Poole.

Get creative: writing prompts

Taking inspiration from Enid Blyton’s books complete the following exercises.

Adventure island

Imagine a thrilling tale of friends exploring a mysterious island. You could visit Brownsea Island for inspiration, or invent your own using your memory or imagination. What secrets or surprises does your island hold?

Gnome alone

Imagining a world similar to those in the Noddy books, describe an amusing, magical character, and their friends. What is their world like? What occupies their days? What happens when something out of the ordinary (to them) occurs?

The magic number

Create your own group of friends like the Famous Five and Secret Seven. Set them in the present day and make sure they represent a healthy diversity reflecting contemporary society.

One of their number can be a favourite pet! What brings them together, and what adventures do they enjoy? Could they go on a boat ride or train trip somewhere? Or could they discover a mystery on their doorstep?

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