Topsy and Tim is a series of children's books written by Jean Adamson and Gareth Adamson about twins and their adventures with their new friends. They were first published by Blackie in 1960; Topsy and Tim were relaunched in new editions in 1990, 2003 and 2009. In 2020, Topsy and Tim "On the Farm" was reprinted to celebrate 60-years since the first publication. Since 1960 more than 130 Topsy and Tim titles have been published with sales of more than 21 million. Since first broadcasting on Cbeebies in 2013, the live-action production of Topsy and Tim has received over 250 million views online.

Origin

In an interview with The Guardian, Jean Adamson said that she and her future husband had been trained as book illustrators at Goldsmiths College. They decided to get married and quit their jobs in order to write and illustrate their own children's books. Their approach was shaped by a visit to a children's bookshop in Newcastle where they realised that there were few books depicting actual contemporary children. She explained that the books were also influenced by the post-war mood:

Television series

The books have been adapted for television twice; first, in collaboration with Video Collection International in 1996 and, second, in collaboration with Darrall MacQueen Limited for the 2013 live-action production, first aired on Cbeebies, now available online and on DVD.

Bevanfield Films

Firstly by Bevanfield Films for Video Collection International, 60 episode 5 minute animated series narrated by Roger Blake and was shown on ITV.

CBeebies

In 2013, a 13-minute live-action comedy series was made for CBeebies, with 3 series produced and 71 episodes made. Further details can be seen here: List of Topsy and Tim episodes. No further episodes have been planned as of 2024. The series was produced by Darrall Macqueen and distributed globally by WildBrain. Series 1 and 2 were filmed from March to October 2013, the Christmas Special was filmed in December 2013 and Series 3 was filmed from June to August 2015.

Characters

Topsy and Tim Books

First Generation: 1960-1987

The first Generation of Topsy and Tim Stories, characterised by Jean Adamson's rich gouache illustrations and believable stories filled with fun anecdotes by Gareth Adamson. Illustrated primarily by Jean Adamson, with some titles illustrated by Gareth Adamson and Gabrielle Adamson.

Second Generation: 1990-2007

The second generation of Topsy and Tim stories, with illustrations drafted by Jean Adamson and coloured by professional artists.

Third Generation: 2009-Ongoing

The third Generation of Topsy and Tim books, based on the original stories by Jean and Gareth Adamson, with modernised illustrations by Belinda Worsley.

Republished: 2020-Ongoing

Republications of the original Topsy and Tim stories, bringing back the classic gouache illustrations by Jean Adamson.