Enid Blyton named 'Britain's Best-Loved Author'

London, Aug 19 : Enid Blyton has been named 'Britain's Best-Loved Author' in a new survey.

Blyton, creator of the Famous Five books as well as the Secret Seven, Malory Towers and Noddy, topped the survey commissioned to mark the 2008 Costa Book Awards.

Roald Dahl came second while Harry Potter author JK Rowling landed the third spot.

Jane Austen came fourth in the nationwide survey of readers followed by William Shakespeare.

"We are delighted that the British public has voted Enid Blyton its best-loved author. Her storytelling is timeless and this result confirms that her books are still a firm favourite today," the Telegraph quoted Jeff Norton of Chorion, owners of the Enid Blyton estate, as saying.

"What makes Blyton so successful is her imaginative, exciting and magical style. Her writing has sent countless young readers on thrilling adventures and we hope that new generations will continue to enjoy her enchanting stories," he added.

Britain's top 10 Best-Loved Authors are:

1. Enid Blyton

2. Roald Dahl

3. J.K. Rowling

4. Jane Austen

5. William Shakespeare

6. Charles Dickens

7. JRR Tolkien

8. Agatha Christie

9. Stephen King

10. Beatrix Potter

ANI