Mary Hooper, the acclaimed author of numerous children's and young adult books, has died at the age of 82. Her agent confirmed that she passed away peacefully at her home in Oxfordshire, England, on June 10, 2026.
A Prolific Career Spanning Decades
Hooper wrote more than 80 books over a career that began in the 1970s. She was best known for her historical novels for young readers, which often focused on girls and women in times of crisis. Her most famous work, At the Sign of the Sugared Plum (2003), is set during the Great Plague of London in 1665 and follows a young girl named Hannah who works in a confectionery shop. The book was widely praised for its vivid historical detail and compelling narrative, and it was followed by a sequel, Petals in the Ashes (2004), set during the Great Fire of London.
Early Life and Inspiration
Born Mary Hooper on September 15, 1943, in Barnes, London, she grew up with a love of reading and storytelling. After leaving school, she worked as a secretary and later as a journalist for women's magazines. Her first book, Ballerina, was published in 1975, and she soon found her niche writing for children. She often said that her inspiration came from a desire to bring history to life for young readers, making it accessible and exciting.
Notable Works and Recognition
Among her other well-known titles are The Ghost of Thomas Kempe (1973), which won the Carnegie Medal, and The Time of the Lion (1998), set in the Elizabethan era. She also wrote a series of books about the Suffragette movement, including Votes for Women! (2011). Her work was praised for its strong female protagonists and meticulous research. In 2012, she was awarded the prestigious Eleanor Farjeon Award for her contribution to children's literature.
Legacy and Impact
Hooper's books have been translated into multiple languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. Teachers and librarians often recommended her novels for their ability to engage reluctant readers and spark an interest in history. She was also a frequent visitor to schools and literary festivals, where she inspired countless young writers.
She is survived by her son, Tom, and her daughter, Lucy. Her husband, the publisher John Hooper, predeceased her in 2018.
A private funeral will be held, followed by a public memorial service later in the year. Fans and colleagues have taken to social media to pay tribute, with many recalling how her books shaped their childhoods.
Mary Hooper's contribution to children's literature will be remembered for generations to come. Her ability to weave historical facts into gripping stories ensured that her books will remain beloved by readers, young and old, for years to come.
