author
Alfred Crowquill
1804–1872
A lively Victorian writer and illustrator, Alfred Crowquill mixed humor, drawing, and storytelling in books that delighted children and adults alike. Working under a memorable pen name, he helped shape early comic and illustrated literature in 19th-century England.
2 Audiobooks
The Giant Hands; or, the Reward of Industry
by Alfred Crowquill
The Pictorial Grammar
by Alfred Crowquill
About the author
Born Alfred Henry Forrester in London on September 10, 1804, he became best known by the pseudonym Alfred Crowquill. He was an English author, illustrator, artist, and comics creator, and his work appeared in a wide range of humorous and illustrated publications.
Crowquill also collaborated with his older brother, Charles Robert Forrester, and the name “Alfred Crowquill” was at first connected with both brothers before Alfred became the figure most strongly associated with it. Over time, he built a reputation for comic sketches, caricature, songs, and especially illustrated books for children.
He died in London on May 26, 1872. Today he is remembered as one of the spirited makers of Victorian popular culture, blending words and pictures in a way that still feels playful and inventive.