In June 2005, Jane moved from the Netherlands back to Kent (near Deal) in England where she now lives.Īside from writing children’s books, Jane spends a significant amount of time inspiring children to read and write. Jane’s husband, Martin, died of a heart attack in Antwerp, Belgium on 20 December 2001. It was during this time when she started her career as a children’s author. After Jane moved with her family to the Netherlands (Koewacht), she began working part time as a librarian at the Antwerp International School.

Thereafter she lectured at University College Cardiff in Wales part time (1981–83), and also taught history at Bryn Hafren School in Barry, Wales (1979–83). Together they raised two sons, Andrew and Robert (both born in Wales).ĭuring her doctoral studies Jane lectured at University College London (1978–79). On 5 November 1977 Jane married Chemical Engineer Martin Clarke, whose work took them to Mexico, Brazil, the United States, Wales and the Netherlands. In 1981 she completed a PhD in archaeology from University College London. From 1972 to 1975 Jane attend the University of Birmingham where she earned a combined Bachelor of Arts with honours in archaeology and history. Though this book stands out due to its willful breaking of the fourth wall to speak directly to readers, the overall package leaves something to be desired.Jane was born 17 December 1954 and brought up in Kettering, Northamptonshire, England. The text is written to encourage reader participation, from greeting Florence, to warning her, to tracing her illuminated trail through the night sky.

Rich dark blues situate the story squarely in the night, each page punctuated by bright yellows from both human and natural lights. Readers familiar with the work of Eric Carle will appreciate the similar illustrations in this story. Perhaps a wish on a shooting star will provide her with the guidance she seeks. Each time she learns that she has been misled and what she thought was her home is something else, her sadness increases. On her way, she encounters many bright lights, but none of them are her firefly brethren. While all of the other fireflies are together in their special home, Florence the firefly is lost and needs to find her way home.

PreS-Gr 1–A dark, star-filled night becomes the setting for one firefly’s grand adventure.

Firefly Home by Jane Clarke