author
Joseph Cundall
1818–1895
A lively Victorian publisher, writer, and early photographer, he helped shape children's books into something more visual, playful, and inviting. Writing as "Stephen Percy," he brought together stories, pictures, and new ideas in ways that still feel fresh.
2 Audiobooks
A Brief History of Wood-engraving From Its Invention
by Joseph Cundall
Robin Hood and His Merry Foresters
by Joseph Cundall
About the author
Born in Norwich in 1818, Joseph Cundall became a London publisher of children's books, a writer, and an early photographer. He is especially remembered for publishing illustrated books for young readers and for working under the pen name "Stephen Percy."
His career moved across several creative fields. Alongside publishing, he was involved in early photography and is described as one of the pioneers of the medium in Victorian Britain. His work connected books, design, and images at a time when illustrated publishing was rapidly growing.
Cundall died in 1895, but his reputation lasts because he helped make children's books more attractive and imaginative, while also taking part in the early history of photography.