The majority of the work in this book was created digitally, but my process in photoshop is very painterly and textured. I spent a lot of time studying reference and also watching videos on YouTube to understand how each animal moved. I had a constant dialogue with the Welbeck team and authors to ensure that … Continue reading Funny Bums, Freaky Beaks – An Illustrative Insight by Sarah Edmonds
My latest thriller, Ready or Not, has just been published. Teenager Kat goes missing during a game of hide-and-seek on holiday with a group of three families in Cornwall. I tell the story through the eyes of 15-year-old Millie, who’s devastated by the absence of her best friend, Kat. The remaining teenagers all go back … Continue reading Ready or Not in Five objects by Tracy Darnton
I have had the incredible opportunity to interview Karl J Mountford, illustrator of The Riddle of the Sea, a book originally published in Dutch through the beautiful storytelling of author Jonne Kramer, and now translated into English by Laura Watkinson. I have been admiring Karl's stunning illustrations since The Uncommoners : The Crooked Sixpence by … Continue reading The Riddle of the Sea – Interview with Illustrator Karl James Mountford
This time last week I had the pleasure of heading to London for my first in-person book event since early 2020, when Covid 19 put a halt to gatherings, and in doing so has played a large part in how book events are predominantly virtual now. I have longed for the opportunity to be amongst … Continue reading My return to in-person book events featured The 100 Story Hotel!
Whether it is a book written by Michelle Paver intended for children, or those that she writes for adults, it is always the case that I instantly warmly recall how my three children all have a literary affinity to the Wolf Brother series, of which Wolfbane is the ninth and final instalment. This is a … Continue reading Wolfbane – The Epic Conclusion to the Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series
What is it about the outdoors that you love? The short answer: Running down really big hills going WHEEEEE! The long answer: When I sat down to work on Let’s Go Outside!, I wanted to celebrate the joys of being out in the fresh air. I didn’t want it to seem too earnest or preachy – … Continue reading What is it about the outdoors that you love? – Let’s go outside!
This selection of books include those which I would highly recommend adding to those which you have collected at home to share with your little ones, including grandchildren, as they are the sort of book brilliance that will withstand the test of time, and be loved by generation after generation. We all know that there … Continue reading The perfect Nature based Picture Book to share with younger readers
Helen (@helenbyles) Antarctica is one of those places that I find really interesting. I’ve seen plenty of documentaries about this and every time I come away with the feeling of wonder. But it’s also a place that I’m happy to discover from the comfort of my living room. Antarctica continues to have some of the … Continue reading Antarctica – The Melting Continent
Sing Along with Me! Baa Baa Black Sheep Illustrated by Yu-Hsuan HuangScan the QR code inside to hear the song The much loved nursery song is brought to life with the most stunning traditional feel illustrations throughout, making sure the newest generation of children will become as big a fans of this song as us … Continue reading Indulge your little one’s imagination with these fantastic Board Books from Nosy Crow
I recently had the pleasure of reading the incredible Spellstoppers, which is due to be published in time for summer break, and will undoubtedly be a huge hit with chapter book readers through Cat Gray's incredible talent in creating a magical world for readers to fall head over heels into, and indulge their imaginations with … Continue reading Spellstoppers by Cat Gray
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