Ursula John was an occasional contributor to Robin Annual, appearing in the first edition (1953) and later in 8 and 9 (1961-62). I've not found any other writings from her apart from a single book, The Adventures of Boss and Dingbatt (London, G. C. Harrap & Co., 1937). Based on the cover alone (which is all I've seen) it would appear to be a children's book about two toys. It was illustrated with photographs by Conrad Southey John.The latter offers us a little clue. Ursula was presumably related and, while I can't locate any information about her, it seems that Conrad Southey Jahn (note the 'a') was born in Kingston, Surrey, in 1905. Presumably Ursula was also a Jahn rather than a John.
(The above book cover is a much cleaned up eBay image... if anyone can supply additional info. on the book it would be very welcome.)
Ursula John was my grandmother and she was actually quite a prolific writer of children's books under her maiden name "Ursula Moray Williams" throughout her long life. Check her listing out on Wikipedia.
ReplyDeletei had this book as a child, and loved it. sadly we parted company many years ago, but it is still one of my favourites. Boss, the koala was the wise one, and Dingbatt, his friend and sidekick, less so.. :)
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