British illustrative author apes artistic masters with Beijing exhibition

Perhaps many children will find resonance with Willy the Wimp, a childlike gorilla character brought to life by the drawing pen of British author Anthony Browne.

He is timid when confronted with problems, as his name suggests, and he wouldn't hurt a fly. However, the young ape has been blessed with a powerful imagination and a strong will, and eventually nurtures his confidence thanks to the support of his friends.

Since his first children's story Through the Magic Mirror, a prolific Browne has published more than 50 books, which have been translated into 26 languages, and have earned him numerous top-tier children's publishing awards, including two Kate Greenaway Medals and the world's highest recognition available to creators of children's literature - the Hans Christian Andersen Award - in 2000.