Alex Horne - The Last Pebble Book Review - Mr Ripley’s Enchanted Books

A stone spinning and a natural wonder. A debut children's novel from comedian and Taskmaster creator Alex Horne, The Last Pebble (Walker Books, July 3, 2025) tells a heartwarming and beautiful, and poignant story about family, friendship, and the joy of discovery and a bucket and spade full of invention. 

Trader and his grandpa share a beloved tradition of collecting pebbles on the beach at Bognor Regis.  One day, Trader finds a particularly special pebble, uncovering a secret that was meant to stay hidden. With the help of his new friend Charlotte, Trader must unravel the mystery surrounding the treasure and return it to its rightful place.

Horne's writing is as warm and witty as his on-screen persona. The first-person narration captures the wonder and innocence of childhood, while the atmospheric descriptions of the British seaside evoke a sense of Ice cream, deck chairs and summer time nostalgia. Educational as much as emotional and deeply absorbing and felt 100% realistic and relatable. 

The Last Pebble is a celebration of childhood summers, special interests, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship. A story that had me hooked from the very first page. Sad and uplifting like the waves crashing against the shore. You will bond with the plot and the characters in equal measure a delightful and memorable read for children and adults alike. Top children's middle-grade book pick for 2025.