Danny Weston - Postcards From Valhalla - Blog Tour - UcLan Publishing - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

Welcome to our blog tour for Danny Weston's highly anticipated new book, "Postcards From Valhalla," which has been published by UCLan Publishing. We are thrilled to be the very first STOP on this exciting journey. Here you can dive into the captivating world crafted by the talented author himself. In "Postcards From Valhalla," Danny Weston weaves a spellbinding tale that transports readers to a realm where reality and mythology collide. However, you can read more by looking at my review HERE. UCLan Publishing, renowned for their commitment to publishing engaging and thought-provoking literature, has once again brought us a literary gem. 

Throughout this tour, we will have the privilege of gaining exclusive insights from Danny Weston himself, as he shares a series of guest posts highlighting his thinking behind the book and his remarkable work. So, join us as we embark on this thrilling adventure through the pages of "Postcards From Valhalla. Stay tuned for the next post, visit the rest of the stops above AND ENJOY!

Why I wrote Postcards from Valhalla by Danny Weston

My latest book began life like so many others… 

I’d just finished writing Stand and Deliver (as Philip Caveney) so now, of course, it was time for a new Danny Weston novel, because the two of us alternate. So I began to cast around for ideas. The thought of not working on another book is somehow beyond the pale. I’ve published more than fifty titles now and it’s almost like an addiction. I have to be writing. It’s as simple as that.

The first thought in my mind is always to write about something I haven’t covered before and the second is to try to find a fresh approach to the idea, so it’s not going to be like something that somebody else has already written.

For some reason, Norse mythology came into my mind. As simple as that. ‘I’ve never done anything Norse.’ Of course I’m aware of the old stories in their various forms, those weird fables about gods and warriors and wizards, but I wanted to make them relevant to what’s happening now. I started thinking about more recent iterations - Thor and Loki for instance, as they’re covered in the Marvel films: those bizarre characters running around in spandex and attacking each other with mystical superweapons. I knew I didn’t want to do anything like that.

I asked myself, would it be possible to create a cast of contemporary characters - fairly ordinary people - who nonetheless somehow embodied all those mythical attributes?

Eventually, I settled on the theme of a quest. 

My lead character, Viggo, is fifteen years old, a Dungeons and Dragons fan, who has always lived in the shadow of his older brother, Magnus, who, like his father before him,  is obsessed with Norse mythology. When Magnus goes missing in Shetland, Viggo’s Mum Alison is understandably worried, and she impulsively books tickets for her and Viggo to go to Shetland to look for him.

OK, there’s my opening premise. 

And then I decided that, as the journey unfolds, the fine line that exists between dreams and reality should be increasingly eroded, the two elements bleeding into each other until the reader is unsure what’s fantasy and what’s reality. And some of the dreams would be decidedly creepy.

Early in their journey, Viggo and his mum, Alison, encounter a mysterious travelling musician called Leon, a man who seems to know an awful lot about them, more than any stranger possibly could. Indeed, he seems to know about every subject under the sun (he’s a regular walking Wikipedia) and he seems determined to tag along wherever Viggo and Alison go.

At first, they dislike Leon and do their very best to shake him off, but time and again, they find they are unable to do so. It’s as though he has some mysterious power over them, a way to thwart every plan they draw up to throw him off their tracks. 

And as the three of them draw steadily nearer and nearer to Magnus, Viggo and Alison become increasingly dependent on Leon for help and advice. 

But who… or what, is he? And where exactly is he leading them?

MR RIPLEY'S ENCHANTED BOOKS: CHILDREN'S BEST BOOK COVER ILLUSTRATION COMPETITION - HEAT 0NE - 2023/24

Welcome once again to Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books 14th Annual Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition! This vibrant event showcases and celebrates the incredible talent and creativity of artists from all around the world. As we continue to foster a love for highlighting the unsung heroes/teams of our favourite book covers.  Join us on this exciting journey and spread the word as we embark on another year of discovering extraordinary artistry that brings enchanting stories to life through the power of illustrations. Get ready to unleash your inner artist and be a part of this remarkable celebration of children's illustration and design! Previous winners HERE!

Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Book Cover Competition Rules 

There will be FIVE weekly heats; each with SIX books to vote for. Although there will be 7 book covers in the final to vote for. All heat winners will make the grand final plus two book covers WITH the highest number of votes from all the previous heats. 

Each week you vote you will be in with a chance to win an exciting prize. 

This week's prize is a Signed Hardback Book - Username: Uprising by Joe Sugg and a bar of chocolate. 

If you are interested all you need to do is:

• Vote for your favourite book cover using the poll HERE  (or at the bottom of the post)
• Leave a comment through this post/poll or see pinned Tweet/X for more details on @Enchantedbooks
• This poll will end on THURSDAY 16th of November 2023 at Midnight (UK). 

Have fun and share with the world through Twitter, Facebook, Threads, and Instagram. Watch the voting develop, and wait to hear whether you've won (once the poll has closed).

Here are the six brilliant book covers to vote for this week: 

BOOK ONE: Andy Sagar - Yesterday Crumb and the Tea Witch's Secret - Published by Orion Children's Books (15 Feb. 2024) - Book Cover Illustrated by Marine Gosselin/Jen Alliston - VOTE HERE

BOOK TWO: Jon Klassen - THE SKULL - Published by Walker Books (11 July 2023) - Illustrated by Jon Klassen - VOTE HERE 

BOOK THREE: Sophie Anderson - The Snow Girl - Published by Usborne Publishing (26 Oct. 2023) - Book Cover Illustrated by Melissa Castrillon - VOTE 

HERE

BOOK FOUR: James Nicol - The Cloud Thief - Published by Chicken House (14 Mar. 2024) - Book Cover Illustrated by Emily Fox - VOTE HERE

BOOK FIVE: Bex Hogan - Bronte Tempestra and the Lightning Steeds - Published by Piccadilly Press (1 Feb. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Hannah McCaffery and art directed by Dominica Clements - VOTE HERE

BOOK SIX: Justin Davies - Haarville - Published by Floris Books (23 Feb. 2023) - Book Cover Illustrated by Francesca Ficorilli/Richard Wainman - VOTE HERE 

HAPPY VOTING!

Danny Weston - Postcards from Valhalla - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

A Gripping Journey into Myth and Intrigue is "Postcards from Valhalla" by the author of mystery, Danny Weston. It will be published by UCLan Publishing on 2nd November (2023) with a brilliantly illustrated book cover by Katie Daisy. The plot takes readers on a thrilling bizarre adventure filled with mystery, Norse mythology, and a touch of the supernatural. Set in the rugged and dramatic landscapes of Shetland, this novel introduces us to Viggo, a fifteen-year-old boy whose life takes an unexpected turn when his older brother (Magnus) goes missing on the island.

From the onset, the story immerses us in Viggo's world. It paints a vivid picture of his mundane existence in Edinburgh. However, as Viggo embarks on a journey to Shetland in search of his brother (with his mother), the narrative takes a dark and exhilarating twist. Strange visions plague Viggo, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. Armed warriors, mythical creatures, and Viking longships haunt his mind, leaving readers captivated and eager to unravel the secrets hidden within the story.

Weston masterfully weaves together elements of suspense, family dynamics, and ancient folklore, creating an artist's palette of emotions that will keep the reader on the edge of their comfortable armchair. The introduction of Leon, a smooth-talking mysterious musician who becomes entangled in Viggo's quest, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. His presence raises questions about his true nature and purpose, further heightening the suspense.

As the search for Magnus intensifies, so does Viggo's connection to the supernatural realm. The author skillfully crafts a sense of foreboding and unease, ensuring that readers are fully invested in Viggo's and his mum's plight. With each turn of the page, the boundaries between the tangible and the mystical blur, as they lead to an explosive climax that will leave readers captivated. 

"Postcards from Valhalla" excels not only in its enthralling unique plot but also in its rich atmospheric descriptions. Weston's vivid prose brings the stunning landscapes of Shetland to life. He really paints a picture so vivid that readers can almost feel the cool breeze and hear the crashing waves. The author's meticulous attention to detail enhances the sense of immersion, allowing readers to experience the story alongside Viggo.

Overall, I loved every minute of this book. It's a gripping and thought-provoking novel that seamlessly blends contemporary fiction with ancient mythology. Danny Weston's masterful storytelling, combined with the compelling characters and atmospheric setting, will keep readers hooked from beginning to end. Prepare to be transported on a thrilling journey where reality and myth converge, and where the true meaning of bravery and familial bonds is put to the test.

The Best Children's Book Picks OCTOBER 2023 - US Post - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Trevor Henderson - SCAREWAVES - Published by Scholastic Press (October 3, 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1338829501 - Paperback - Age: 8+ 

Internet horror superstar Trevor Henderson is famous for his ghastly creations and hair-raising creepypastas. Now he brings that talent for the terrifying to this debut middle-grade thriller.

You don’t stay out after dark in Beacon Point…

The small town of Beacon Point has always been plagued by eerie local phenomena. It’s a town where disappearances are common, strange creatures have been sighted with unnerving frequency, and a ghastly secret lurks in the woods.

The adults in town are oblivious to these strange occurrences. Others prefer not to talk or even think about them. But over the course of several terrifying nights, a group of kids will come face to face with the horrors hiding within their sleepy town. Guided by the mysterious radio host Alan Graves, they must follow the clues to a terrifying secret before it eats them alive.

Jaclyn Moriarty - The Secret of Lillian Velvet - Published by Levine Querido (October 10, 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1646142613 - Hardback - Age: 7+

Here are only a few of the wonderful, strange, and mysterious elements in this breathtaking visit to the Kingdoms and Empires: A very proper girl named Lillian Velvet, living a very lonely life with a nasty Grandmother.  A jar of coins, each with the power to take Lillian on a journey to a different time and place…and also to grant a single wish. A small boy in a barn is about to be crushed to death by a load of hay. A family, each member in mortal danger, who are strangers to Lillian (but whom clever readers will recognize). And a web of dangerous magic closing tight around all.  Who IS this Lillian Velvet? And what is her secret?

Only Jaclyn Moriarty has the ability to make readers laugh, even while they grip the sides of their chairs in suspense. In THE SECRET OF LILLIAN VELVET, she is at the height of her storytelling powers, spinning, spinning, spinning seemingly disparate elements until all is revealed as one delicious, tantalizing whole. 

Donna Barba Higuera - Alebries - Published by Levine Querido (October 3, 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1646142637 - Hardback - Age: 10+ 

This is the story as it was told to me by Leandro the Mighty. 

For 400 years, Earth has been a barren wasteland. The few humans that survive scrape together an existence in the cruel city of Pocatel – or go it alone in the wilderness beyond, filled with wandering spirits and wyrms. They don’t last long. 

13 year-old pickpocket Leandro and his sister Gabi do what they can to forge a life in Pocatel. The city does not take kindly to Cascabel like them – the descendants of those who worked the San Joaquin Valley for generations. 

When Gabi is caught stealing precious fruit from the Pocatelan elite, Leando takes the fall. But his exile proves more than he ever could have imagined -- far from a simple banishment, his consciousness is placed inside an ancient drone and left to fend on its own. But beyond the walls of Pocatel lie other alebrijes like Leandro who seek for a better world -- as well as mutant monsters, wasteland pirates, a hidden oasis, and the truth. 

From Donna Barba Higuera, Newbery and Pura Belpré Medal-winning author of The Last Cuentista, comes another novel to astonish us and create a whole new imaginative world, that holds a mirror to our own.

Jessica Vitalis - Coyote Queen - Published by Greenwillow Books (October 10, 2023) - SBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0063314405 - Hardback - Age: 8+ 

 When a twelve-year-old decides that she must get herself and her mother out of a bad situation, an eerie connection to a coyote pack helps her see who she’s meant to be—and who she can truly save. The Benefits of Being an Octopus meets The Nest in this contemporary middle-grade novel about family, class, and resilience, with a magical twist.

Twelve-year-old Fud feels trapped. She lives a precarious life in a cramped trailer with her mom and her mom’s alcoholic ex-boxer boyfriend, Larry. Fud can see it’s only a matter of time until Larry explodes again, even if her mom keeps on making excuses for his behavior. If only Fud could find a way to be as free as the coyotes roaming the Wyoming countryside: strong, smart, independent, and always willing to protect their own.

When Larry comes home with a rusted-out houseboat, Fud is horrified to hear that he wants to fix it up for them to live on permanently. All she sees is a floating prison. Then new neighbor Leigh tells Fud about Miss Black Gold, a beauty pageant sponsored by the local coal mine. While Fud doesn’t care much about gowns or talents or prancing around on stage, she cares very much about getting herself and her mom away from Larry before the boat is finished. And to do that, she needs money, in particular, Miss Black Gold's prize money.

One problem: the more Fud fantasizes about escape, the more her connection to the coyotes lurking outside her window grows. And strange things have started happening—is Fud really going color-blind? Are her eyebrows really getting bushier? And why does it suddenly seem like she can smell everything?

Jessica Vitalis crafts a moving and voice-driven novel about family and resilience, with a fantastical twist. Coyote Queen is perfect for readers of The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise and The Elephant in the Room

Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books - Best Children's Book Picks October 2023

 

Here is our post introducing the enchanting world of children's literature for October 2023! Let's embark on a delightful journey through my favorite book picks, where imagination knows no bounds and adventures await at every turn of the page. From whimsical tales of magic and friendship to heartwarming stories that teach valuable lessons. 

Alex Bell (Author), Beatriz Castro (Illustrator) - The Train of Dark Wonders - Published by Rock the Boat (5 Oct. 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0861545964 - Paperback - Age: 8+

Bess has always loved her grandfather’s collection of curiosities. So she’s delighted when she’s handed the keys to his Odditorium. But unless she finds a way to draw in the crowds, she’ll have to close its doors for good.

When a mysterious train pulls into town, bound for The Land of Halloween Sweets, Bess hatches a plan and sneaks onboard. She is soon discovered by Beau the puppeteer, Louis the violinist and Maria the fire witch. Eager to join their adventure, Bess sets out to search for the rarest sweet of all – the ghostly gobstopper.    But the land is ruled by the fearsome Candymaker. And beneath the sugary surface, things are more dangerous than they first appear...

Guy Bass (Author), Alessia Trunfio (Illustrated) - SCRAP|:1 - Published by Little Tiger (12 Oct. 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1788955973 - Paperback - Age: 7+ 

The year was Something Something. Humans had spread like peanut butter across the galaxy, looking for new planets to call Somewhere.
One of those planets was Somewhere Five One Three.

When the humans arrive on Somewhere 513, they discover that the robots sent to prepare the planet for Humanity’s arrival have chosen to keep it for themselves. Only one robot remains loyal – K1-NG, aka King of the Robots. But even with the most powerful robot on their side, the outlawed humans don’t stand a chance.

Ten years on, Gnat and her sister Paige are the only humans left and have spent their lives hidden underground. Now they must venture out in search of the one robot that stood by the humans. There’s just one problem – the once mighty K1-NG has vowed never to help another human for as long as he lives…

Anna Kemp (Author), David Wyatt (Illustrator) - The Hollow Hills (Vol 2) - Published by Simon & Schuster Children's UK (26 Oct. 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1398503892 - Paperback - Age: 8+ 

Nobody knows what lies inside the Knoll nor what form the Fae have taken after all these years . . . join a quest of a lifetime to rescue Goblyn Wood from the fae, with a sequel to Into Goblyn Wood for fans of Nevermoor and Podkin One-Ear! Are you ready to enter Goblyn Wood . . . ?

When Hazel ventured into Goblyn Wood, she discovered that she was part fairy and the Fae have been hoarding magic. Now, on a mission to help the other fairies and rescue her friend Pete, she needs to travel to the Fae Dominion. No one has been inside for years but Hazel arrives there, it’s a glorious paradise and Pete is happy. Hazel is sure that something is wrong but soon begins to forget about her mission. And in the world outside, the threat to Goblyn Wood is increasing…

Can Hazel complete her mission and help bring balance back to Goblyn Wood?

Loretta Schauer - The Legend of Ghastly Jack Crowheart - Published by Andersen Press (5 Oct. 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1839133091 - Paperback - Age: 8+ 

For Lil, life at the Squawking Mackerel Inn couldn’t be more miserable. She's tasked with the sloppiest, grottiest jobs and picked on at every turn. Her only friend is Augustus Scratchy, a cantankerous crow with a habit of stealing. When the dread villain Rotten Bob Hatchet and his gang of cut-throat highwaymen begin attacking travellers on the road, things get really dire.

Joining forces with a new servant boy, Ned, and armed with the contents of the inn’s lost property cupboard, a pocket full of revolting dumplings and some knicker elastic, Lil comes up with a plot to scare off Rotten Bob. And so the legend of Ghastly Jack Crowheart the Demon Highwayman is born!

Dangerous highwaymen, furious crows, ludicrous underwear, and a turnip apocalypse - stand and deliver!

The Best Children's Book Picks SEPTEMBER 2023 - US Post - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

Introducing our delightful children's book picks for September 2023! This month, we have a collection of fantastic tales that will spark imagination and captivate readers. From whimsical adventures to heartwarming stories, these books are sure to bring joy to children of all ages. Let the magic unfold as we embark on a journey through the pages of these wonderful stories!

Coco Ma - Nightbreaker - Published by Viking Books for Young Readers (19 Sept. 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0593621462 - Hardback - Age: 14+ 

Fifteen years ago, The Vanishing thrust Manhattan into darkness, forever changing the City That Never Sleeps. By day, resilient New Yorkers have adapted, clinging to the vestiges of their cosmopolitan lives. By night―well, you never go out at night unless you have a death wish. Or unless you're Rei Reynolds. Rei attends an exclusive New York prep school, but unlike her classmates, she welcomes nightfall. That's when she can secretly hunt Deathlings, the deadly creatures that have prowled Manhattan's subway tunnels and blood-soaked streets since the Vanishing. After they brutally slaughtered her parents years ago, Rei is desperate for vengeance. To get it, Rei must qualify for―and win―the Tournament, a competition to join the ranks of the city’s legendary Deathling hunters. Rei’s nightly pursuits should give her an advantage, but the other competitors are fierce, and in some cases familiar: enter Kieran Cross, Rei’s most infuriating rival . . . and ex-boyfriend. As the Tournament progresses―and the cutthroat competition escalates―everything Rei believed about who she can trust is called into question. Soon enough, she’s caught in the crosshairs of the elite who want to keep the city's ruling class in power, as well as those who will stop at nothing to bring it down. Because sometimes it's not the monsters waiting in the dark you should fear . . . it's the ones who dare to walk into the light. Coco Ma's exhilarating urban fantasy thrusts readers into an immersive world of thrills and chills, featuring the smart, sardonic post-apocalyptic heroine you’ll soon wish you could be.

Janelle McCurdy - The Traitor of Nubis: 2 (Umbra Tales) - Published by Aladdin (19 Sept. 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1665901307 - Hardback - Age: 7+

Mia grapples with the responsibility of her new powers and uncovers even more of Nubis's secrets in this thrilling second book in the Umbra Tales middle-grade series that's Keeper of the Lost Cities meets The Golden Compass.

The Reaper King's attempt to break free and thrust the rest of the Kingdom of Lunis into darkness has been thwarted, but all is still not well in Nubis, Mia's moonlit kingdom home. The whole city is on guard for another attempt to resurrect the Reaper King. Though imprisoned, his followers, the Elite, are still inside the city, and tensions among the population are at an all-time high. 

Meanwhile, Mia struggles to cope with her new Lightcaster powers and to fit in with the rest of the tamers, many of whom are skeptical of her abilities. But it's the appearance of old friends and new maybe-enemies that will truly put Mia's abilities--and the loyalties of everyone she trusts--to the test.

Karl Hiaasen- ‎ Wrecker - Knopf Books for Young Readers (September 26, 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0593376287 - Hardback - Age: 9+

Wrecker needs to deal with smugglers, grave robbers, and pooping iguanas—just as soon as he finishes Zoom school. Welcome to another wild adventure in Carl Hiaasen's Florida!

Valdez Jones VIII calls himself Wrecker because his great-great-great-great-great-grandfather salvaged shipwrecks for a living. 

So is it destiny, irony, or just bad luck when Wrecker comes across a speedboat that has run hard aground on a sand flat? The men in the boat don't want Wrecker to call for help—in fact, they'll pay him to forget he ever saw them. 

Wrecker would be happy to forget, but he keeps seeing these men all over Key West—at the marina, in the cemetery, even right outside his own door. And now they want more than his silence—they want a lookout.

He'll have to dive deep into their shady dealings to figure out a way to escape this tangled net. . . .

Lindsay Currie - It Fund Us -  Sourcebooks Young Readers (September 5, 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1728259499 - Hardback - Age: 7+

From the author of Scritch Scratch and The Girl in White comes a new spooky mystery about a girl detective who must decode a series of ominous clues tied to a century-old tragedy to find a missing teenager before it's too late…

Twelve-year-old Hazel Woods has always had an unusual knack for sleuthing. Some may call it snooping, but all she really wants is to solve mysteries around town. So, when she not-so-accidentally overhears her brother Den planning to sneak into the cemetery at night for an epic game of hide-and-seek, she decides to secretly tag along. This seems like the perfect opportunity to investigate the claims that the cemetery is haunted.

But the moment the game ends, Hazel realizes something is very, very wrong. From her hiding spot in the bushes, she overhears that her brother's best friend, Everett, is missing. Everyone else was found by the seeker but there's no sign of Everett anywhere. It's as if he just . . . vanished

Hazel and Den are determined to find Everett before it's too late. But as they begin to unravel the terrifying clues that started appearing since that night in the graveyard–eerie whispers that sound like someone counting, the intermittent smell of smoke, and the cold, lost presence that follows them everywhere, she's not sure what they are dealing with. But Everett needs more than search parties and scent-tracking dogs to find him, especially if his disappearance is tied to the history of the cemetery, and the lost, century-old spirits that might still be trapped there . . .

Ethan M. Aldridge -  Deephaven - Published by Quill Tree Books (September 5, 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0063283169 - Hardback - Age: 7+ 

From Ethan M. Aldridge, bestselling creator of Estranged, comes a gothic middle-grade prose novel that follows a nonbinary student who is drawn to their boarding school’s forbidden east wing, where something stalks the shadowy corridors. Perfect for fans of J. A. White and Mary Downing Hahn!

When Guinevere "Nev" Tallow receives an acceptance letter to the exclusive Deephaven Academy, they know it’s the fresh start that they’ve been looking for.

But things are strange from the moment they arrive—the house itself seems to breathe, students whisper secrets in dark corridors, and the entire east wing of the academy is locked away for reasons no one wants to explain. And Nev knows something ragged stalks the shadowy corridors, something that sobs quietly and scratches at the walls, waiting to be released.

With the help of another first-year student, Nev takes it upon themself to unravel the mysteries hidden in Deephaven's halls. But will they risk their fresh start to bring the academy’s secret to light?

Nicola Davies (Author), Jackie Morris (Illustrator) - Skrimsli - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

"Skirmsli" by Nicola Davies is a captivating and thought-provoking children's book that takes readers on an immersive journey into the natural world and beyond. It is due to be published, this September 14th, as a gloriously illustrated hardback format by Welsh indie children's publisher, Firefly Press. The book cover and pictures are illustrated by the talented Jackie Morris - they are absolutely breathtaking. The book cover is definitely a personal favourite of mine this year, so far! 

Set against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, this vivid story explores themes of friendship, courage, and the importance of protecting the environment which, as we know, is very topical at the moment. The narrative starts slowly as we follow the adventures of Skirmsli (a tiger cub) as he embarks on a quest to save his family and their precious habitat from impending danger. Through Skirmsli's eyes, readers are introduced to a wonderful diverse cast of characters, both animal and human, in a world where animals and humans can sometimes share their thoughts. The author skillfully weaves a narrative that seamlessly combines drama, humour, and really heartfelt realistic moments, making it a powerful must-read for children and adults of all ages.

"One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to educate while entertaining" 

Skirmsli by Nicola Davies is a moving and good follow-up to The Song that Sings Us. It's a cleverly written educational children's book that effortlessly combines adventure, environmental themes, and engaging characters. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural world as it encourages young readers to embrace curiosity and empathy. With its vivid illustrations and inspiring narrative, Skirmsli is a valuable addition to any reading list. It will certainly spark a love for nature exploration and the wonders the world holds. The story is a journey for the bold and the brave so purchase a copy and enjoy the adventure. BUY TODAY!

Claire Fayers - Tapper Watson and the Quest for the Nemo Machine - Blog Tour - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

Welcome to readers and all sixty-seven cousins of Tapper Watson as we embark on another exciting Blog Tour stop. Tapper Watson and the Quest for the Nemo Machine is one of our favourite reads of the year. Therefore, we’re delighted to have a post from the author introducing The World of Tapper Watson – A Guide for New Adventurers and really hope that you enjoy finding out more. You can also read our raving review for the book HERE. 

The book is due to be published by all eight limbs of the publishing house (otherwise known as Firefly Press) on the 7th September 2023. Hope you enjoy it and see you on the next BIG ADVENTURE! 

Greetings, adventurers and welcome to Swansea, the capital of Earth and home to Earth’s only portal into the river Lethe.

Before you travel, there are a few things you should know.

SMILE - the Swansea Multiworld Institute of Lethe Exploration is situated on the far side of Swansea Bay. SMILE is Earth’s largest exploration and research centre, attracting visitors from hundreds of different worlds. The guards here have many powers: to grant and revoke submarine licenses, to confiscate goods and even issue arrest warrants. They take their jobs very seriously. It is said that the only thing a SMILE guard cannot do is actually smile, so please do not annoy them.

Submarines – These, of course, are our means of travel between worlds. We exit Earth via Swansea Bay and you may experience a momentary weight loss as you enter the Lethe. Your vessel will be fully equipped with the latest artificial gravity so do not worry.

The Lethe – The great space river is our pathway to a thousand other worlds. It is, of course, named after the Greek river of forgetfulness. You knew that, didn’t you? You will also know that the Lethe’s waters contain the memories of everyone who has ever lived, and that drinking a single drop will strip every memory out of your head. Submarines are tightly sealed so there is no cause for alarm, however, if you do notice a drop of water on your person, do not panic, but keep your mouth tightly shut and report to your submarine captain, using Morse Code, or mime.

Morse Code – As you are all aware, radio waves upset the waters of the Lethe, causing riverstorms, and so all submarines communicate by Morse Code. I assume you are all fluent in Morse, but if not, I suggest you brush up on your skills quickly.

Echolings – The memories in the Lethe are in constant motion and as they collide, they merge to create strange new shapes. Don’t be surprised if you spot a duck with an elephant’s trunk, or a teapot floating past your submarine window. Despite recent warnings of “incidents”, echolings are not alive and they are not dangerous. Most of them are insubstantial, like ghosts, and the few that take solid form will simply bounce away from the submarine. 

Worlds – Our first stop will be the octopod world, Zymandia. Take time to enjoy the pastel rivers and the curious towns on stilts. The low gravity means you will see the octopods flying. Please do not try to fly yourselves, the gravity is not that low.

From Zymandia, we will proceed to the fire world of Cassini where the dragonlike inhabitants have evolved scales that change colour according to their mood. Remember – a pale dragona is an angry dragona.

Our final stop will be a shopping trip to Eris. We allowed extra time for this as the Erisean merchants will ask you about your families and tell you all about theirs before letting you buy anything. A large family is a sign of status on Eris and it’s customary to have at least eight brothers and sisters.

Thank you for listening to this safety announcement. Now, please buckle up and enjoy the ride.

Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books - Best Children's Book Picks September 2023

Nicola Davies (Author), Jackie Morris (Illustrator) - Skrimsli - Published by Firefly Press (14 Sept. 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1913102807 - Hardback 

“ Immersive, breathtaking visionary and an illustrated delight ” – Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Who are you if you’ve never seen another face like yours? Where do you belong if you don’t know where your home is? What do you call yourself when others call you ‘freak'...? Skrimsli is a second fantasy adventure from author Nicola Davies, set in a world where animals and humans can sometimes share their thoughts. It traces the early life of Skrimsli, the tiger sea captain who stole readers’ hearts in The Song that Sings Us. He and his friends, Owl and Kal, must first escape the clutches of tyrannical circus owner Kobret Majak and his twin assassin-acrobats, then stop a war and save an ancient forest! Skrimsli and his friends are helped by desert princess the Palatine and her eagle, a chihuahua who thinks she’s a wolf, a horse with heart of gold and the crew of a very unusual ship. This is a story full of excitement and danger, that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, identity and love, in the context of some of humanity’s toughest problems.

Sarah Todd Taylor - Alice Éclair, Spy Extraordinaire!: A Sprinkling of Danger - Published by Nosy Crow Ltd (14 Sept. 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1839948855 - Paperback 

Alice Éclair, Spy Extraordinaire will whisk you away on a fabulous adventure, full of daring action and delicious cakes!

Baker by day, spy by night - Alice Éclair leads an exciting double life!

On a glamorous movie set at the Palace of Versailles, someone is leaking national secrets. Is it the American director with the shady past, or the flamboyant lead actress whose Renaissance wig is full of secrets? Or is it someone so devious, Alice hasn't even noticed them? Whoever it is, this person has a deadly plan...
Armed with a light sponge mix and an airy disregard for danger, Alice Éclair is on the case! And she'll need to use every trick in her recipe book to survive this mission...
A Sprinkling of Danger is Alice's third adventure and can be read as a stand-alone novel, or enjoyed as part of the Alice Éclair, Spy Extraordinaire series. Look out for Alice's other missions, A Recipe for Trouble and A Spoonful of Spying!

Hannah Gold (Author), Levi Pinfold (Illustrator) - Finding Bear - Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books (28 Sept. 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0008582012 - Hardback 

The unmissable follow-up to the phenomenal bestselling and award-winning The Last Bear. Beautifully illustrated by Levi Pinfold and perfect for readers 8+

April Wood has returned home from her adventure on Bear Island. But, over a year later, she can’t stop thinking about Bear.

When April hears that a polar bear has been shot and injured in Svalbard, she’s convinced it’s her friend and persuades her dad to travel with her to the northernmost reaches of the Arctic. So begins an unforgettable journey across frozen tundra and icy glaciers.

But along the way, she discovers much more than she bargained for – a tiny polar bear cub, desperately in need of her help. In freezing temperatures, April must navigate the dangerous Arctic terrain and face her deepest fears if she’s to save him.

Beautifully illustrated by Levi Pinfold, Finding Bear is a stunning story of survival and a heartwarming tale of love that shows us how hope is born from the smallest of beginnings.

Claire Fayers - Tapper Watson and the Quest for the Nemo Machine -  Published by Firefly Press (7 Sept. 2023) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1915444158 - Paperback 

Tapper Watson is just an ordinary Erisean boy who loves adventure stories. But when one of his sixty-seven cousins sends him away on a smugglers’ submarine through the River Lethe to other worlds, he just wants to go home again. On an unscheduled visit to Earth he meets Fern Shakespeare, and a talking plant called Morse, and their adventures begin. And when he finds himself being chased through worlds by a pair of trigger-happy lobster mobsters in search of the mysterious Nemo Machine, Tapper begins to realise that he might not be so ordinary after all…