Author alumna behind multi-million-selling Isadora Moon series awarded honorary doctorate
University of Hertfordshire alumna Harriet Muncaster, creator of the internationally bestselling Isadora Moon series, which has sold more than seven million copies worldwide and been translated into 42 languages, has been awarded an honorary doctorate from her former university.
The children’s author and illustrator received the Honorary Doctorate of Arts, awarded in recognition of her outstanding contribution to children’s literature, illustration and publishing, during the University’s evening graduation ceremony at St Albans Cathedral yesterday (Tuesday, 8 September).
Harriet’s journey as an artist began close to home. Growing up in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, she took her first steps into professional illustration at the University of Hertfordshire, where she completed an Art Foundation course between 2006 and 2007.
Since publishing her first illustrated book, I Am a Witch’s Cat, in 2014, Harriet has built a remarkable international career creating magical worlds that have captivated millions of children and families.
Today, she is the author and illustrator of more than 55 books, including the hugely successful Isadora Moon, Mirabelle and Emerald series, as well as The Diary of Wiska Wildflower and the Victoria Stitch books, all published by Oxford University Press.
The Isadora Moon series, which follow the adventures of Isadora Moon, a half-fairy, half-vampire girl, as she navigates everyday life while balancing her two magical heritages, has become a global publishing phenomenon. The books have sold more than seven million copies worldwide, been translated into 42 languages and adapted into a successful animated television series shown on Sky Kids and in countries around the world.
Harriet said: “I am absolutely delighted to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Hertfordshire. The University holds a special place in my heart because it’s where I began to develop my illustration skills in a more academic and professional environment.
“I hope this recognition inspires people who are just starting out on their own creative journeys. You never know where your imagination might take you, and there are always more characters waiting to jump off the pages of new books.”
Professor Anthony Woodman, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hertfordshire, said:
“Harriet’s extraordinary success has inspired millions of young readers around the world and demonstrated the enduring power of creativity, imagination and storytelling.
“We are particularly proud that her journey began at the University of Hertfordshire. From those early studies in illustration to becoming one of the world’s most successful children’s authors, she exemplifies what can be achieved through talent, determination and creative ambition.
“Her honorary doctorate recognises not only her remarkable publishing success, but also the positive impact she has had on generations of young readers. Through her books, she has created imaginative worlds that spark curiosity, encourage creativity and help children discover a lifelong love of reading. She is a truly worthy recipient of this honour and an inspiration to the next generation of writers, illustrators and creative professionals.”
15 remarkable individuals are being awarded honorary doctorates – one posthumously - by the University of Hertfordshire this September. They will join more than 7,000 graduates at the University's graduation ceremonies, running from the 8-17 September.
Find out more about studying creative subjects at the University of Hertfordshire.