Peter Dickinson Books In Order

Publication Order of The Changes Trilogy Books

Publication Order of Jimmy Pibble Books

Publication Order of The Kin Books

Publication Order of Princess Louise Books

Publication Order of The Ropemaker Books

Publication Order of Tales Of Elemental Spirits Books

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas

Publication Order of Collections

Publication Order of MagicQuest Books

Publication Order of Anthologies

About Peter Dickinson

Peter Dickinson was a British writer who created stories and poems, with a focus on books for young readers and mystery novels. He received the Carnegie Medal twice, an award given to exceptional children’s books, for Tulku and City of Gold. Only a handful of authors have earned this honor more than once, and he remains one of them. His book Eva was also highly praised, along with several others that were recognized as strong contenders for awards.

His talent for storytelling made his books enjoyable for many readers. He had a skill for shaping interesting characters who felt real and relatable. The way he built his plots kept readers curious about what would happen next. His stories were known for being exciting and well-written, making them hard to put down.

In 2000, Dickinson was considered for the Hans Christian Andersen Medal, a major international award for children’s authors. This showed how respected his work was around the world. His ability to craft engaging tales with memorable heroes and villains set his writing apart. Readers of all ages found his books entertaining and full of imagination.

He wrote stories that captivated readers across the globe while staying authentic to his own style. His books were filled with adventure, mystery, and imagination, making them hard to put down. He didn’t follow trends but instead told the kinds of tales he believed in, which gave his work a unique voice. Readers appreciated this honesty, as it made his stories feel fresh and original.

His characters were cleverly crafted, often facing challenges that kept the plot moving in exciting ways. Whether writing fantasy, historical fiction, or detective stories, he made sure each narrative was gripping and well-structured. His ability to blend creativity with strong storytelling ensured his books stood out. Fans of all ages found something to enjoy in his wide-ranging works.

Winning major awards proved that his writing resonated with both critics and audiences. He didn’t just entertain—he made readers think, wonder, and feel deeply invested in his worlds. By staying true to his vision, he created stories that remained memorable long after the last page. That’s why his books continue to be celebrated by generations of readers.

Peter Dickinson’s influence lives on through his many beloved books, which remain popular years after their publication. His unique storytelling and memorable characters continue to inspire new readers and writers alike. By earning major awards and lasting praise, he secured his place as a standout voice in children’s literature. His work proves that great stories, told with skill and heart, never truly fade away.

Early and Personal Life

Peter Dickinson was born in Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) in 1927, the son of a colonial officer and a farmer’s daughter. As a boy, he loved adventure tales like Ivanhoe and King Solomon’s Mines, and the works of Rudyard Kipling left a lasting impression on him. His family later moved to England so he and his brothers could attend school there, shaping his early education.

He studied at Saint Ronan’s prep school and later Eton College before serving in the military and earning a degree from Cambridge. For years, he worked at Punch magazine as an editor and reviewer while writing poetry on the side. His first books—a mystery for adults and a sci-fi story for children—were published in 1968, launching his successful career as a full-time author.

Dickinson married twice, first to Mary Rose Barnard, with whom he had four children, and later to fellow author Robin McKinley. Honored for his contributions to literature, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and received an OBE. Even in later life, he enjoyed bridge and gardening, remaining active until his passing on his 88th birthday in 2015.

Writing Career

Peter Dickinson had a diverse writing career, producing nearly fifty books across three main categories: adult crime fiction, speculative fiction for older children, and simpler children’s stories. His first two mystery novels, Skin Deep (1968) and A Pride of Heroes (1969), both won the prestigious Gold Dagger award. He also gained recognition for his children’s books, including The Blue Hawk (1976), which earned him the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize the following year.

Dickinson won two Carnegie Medals—for Tulku (1979) and City of Gold (1980)—and was a finalist for the Hans Christian Andersen Award. His Changes trilogy became a BBC TV series, and Eva (1988) later won the Phoenix Award. His final works, Earth and Air and In the Palace of the Khans, were published in 2012, capping a celebrated literary career.

The Ropemaker

Peter Dickinson’s young adult fantasy The Ropemaker was published on October 14, 2003, by Delacorte Books for Young Readers. It served as the first installment in The Ropemaker series. The novel added to Dickinson’s acclaimed body of work in speculative fiction for older children and young adults.

Tilja lives in the Valley, sheltered from the Empire by a magical forest that’s losing its power. She joins three companions on a journey into the Empire to find a magician who can restore the Valley’s protection. Though she possesses no magic, Tilja discovers she alone can shield her group from the Empire’s sorcerers. Her unexpected role becomes crucial to their mission’s success.

Readers enjoy this imaginative fantasy where an ordinary girl becomes vital against magical threats. Dickinson crafts an engaging adventure with surprising depth. Fans of thoughtful YA stories appreciate its originality.

Eva

Peter Dickinson’s young adult sci-fi fantasy Eva was published on November 1, 1990, by Laurel Leaf. The novel became one of his most acclaimed works, earning multiple literary recognitions.

Thirteen-year-old Eva wakes in a hospital with no memory beyond a beach picnic. Her mother explains she survived a traffic accident after a long coma. Eva senses hidden truths about her recovery. She questions what medical sacrifices were made to bring her back.

Many found this book to be thought-provoking sci-fi exploring identity and medical ethics through Eva’s unsettling awakening. Dickinson’s compelling premise delivers both emotional depth and philosophical questions. A standout YA novel.