Exhibition: Marvellous and Mischievous: Literature's Young Rebels

A family-friendly exhibition bringing together young rebels from children’s literature

Anyone can be a rebel, whether they are standing up for their beliefs, saving the planet or battling against the odds. See how characters from Pippi Longstocking to Princess Pearl break rules and defy conventions to make the world a better place for others.

Rediscover your favourite characters and the youthful optimism you share with them. Roald Dahl’s handwritten drafts of Matilda sit alongside Quentin Blake’s iconic illustrations, as well as other enduring classics from The Secret Garden to Where the Wild Things Are.

Not all rebels are mischievous rogues, some are spirited survivors. Let the bravery of characters from Azzi in Between and Billy and the Beast inspire you. Or learn the importance of resilience from Oliver Twist, Tracy Beaker and The Midnight Gang.

Before you go, you can start your own adventure too. Dress up as a determined rebel, create your own comic, or take time out in our reading area.

No matter how big or small your acts of rebellion, our motley crew will help you discover your inner rebel and have some fun along the way.

Up your rebellion with our Marvellous and Mischievous season, featuring events inspired by the exhibition, free activities for families and adult courses exploring children's literature.

Zog © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, 2010


Please note that on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (9.30-16.00) the exhibition is reserved for school groups and not open to the general public. This applies in term time only.