About author: Wilbert Awdry

Wilbert Awdry

Wilbert Awdry, often referred to as Rev. W. Awdry, was an English Anglican clergyman, railway enthusiast, and children's author. He is best known for creating the beloved characters of Thomas the Tank Engine and other characters in his Railway Series. Awdry's stories were inspired by his childhood experiences with trains and the Great Western Railway. The first book in the series, "The Three Railway Engines," was published in 1945, and the series continued to grow until Awdry retired in 1972. His work has been adapted into a television series, "Thomas & Friends," and has sold millions of copies worldwide. Awdry's contributions to children's literature were recognized with the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1996.