Peter Clover is the writer and illustrator of the much-loved Sheltie series, featuring the little pony with the big heart.
THE BASICS
Born: London, June 9th 1952
Jobs: Writer, Illustrator
Lives: Somerset
First Book: Drawing Horses and Ponies
THE BOOKS
Peter Clover was born and went to school in London. He was a storyboard artist and illustrator for leading advertising agencies in the West End. Whilst illustrating in the hectic world of advertising, Peter discovered his love for writing and began putting words to his pictures.
Appropriately enough, the first book Peter wrote was called Drawing Horses and Ponies and the first book he illustrated was The Best Pony for Me! His inspiration for pony books stems in part from living on Exmoor. He currently lives in a small village on the Somerset coast, which is not so very different from Little Applewood!
Peter began writing the Sheltie series in 1996. It is the first pony series written for 6-8 year-olds and has quickly become one of the most popular series around. Who could fail to fall in love with cheeky, mischievous, fun-loving Sheltie?
Peter keeps a notebook with him at all times and jots down anything which might trigger a storyline. “When a story starts to form in my head it just grows and grows. The story that is, not my head!” It takes Peter around six weeks to write a book and about two weeks to illustrate it. He always writes the story out in longhand first.
In between working on the Sheltie series, Peter Clover enjoys writing, painting, travelling, cooking and keeping fit. A frustrated gymnast, he can still do a back flip whilst tossing a pancake.
WHAT HE SAYS...
“I wanted to spend my time doing the two things I enjoyed most – writing and creating pictures. Adventure stories for kids seemed like a brilliant idea and I just love it. Being able to create an entire village like Little Applewood and bringing all the characters to life gives me such a buzz.”
WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT PETER CLOVER...
"Well written, and fast-paced to hold children’s interest. Sheltie books are not just entertaining stories, they are educational too."
Riding Magazine
“With lots of black and white illustrations and plenty of pony details for experts, this series is sure to grow a loyal following.” Columbia Magazine
“For anyone who has ever dreamt of owning their own pony, Sheltie is a dream come true… a loveable little Shetland with a huge personality and a strong sense of mischief.” Puzzle Kidz
“Great books.” Ponies Forever
“Sheltie and his friend Emma are caught up in adventure and excitement, solving mysteries and making new friends along the way.”
My Beautiful Horses
“Emma’s adventures with a very special pony are enchanting for children.” The Richmond and Twickenham Informer
“Exciting and adventurous.”
Gina’s World on Sheltie and the Saddle Mystery: Vol 8
“Gripping stuff.”
Horse and Pony on Sheltie and The Snow Pony: Vol 13
