© Leigh Hobbs, illustration from Old Tom’s Holiday, Little Hare Books, 2002. Pen and gouache, Pictures Collection, State Library of Victoria.

In Old Tom’s Holiday, Old Tom turns up in some surprising places. Here he is relaxing at the beach while Angela Throgmorton strolls past. Illustrator and author Leigh Hobbs explains Old Tom's appeal:

'I think Old Tom appeals because he is adventurous, funny, rebellious and mischievous, but underneath he wants and needs to feel secure and loved.'