Happy World Book Day!

This year has been busy so far with a great mix of in-person and virtual school and library events. It was lovely to be part of Paisley Book Festival’s schools programme in February and there are lots more events to come in March.

My New Year’s Resolution was to get more exercise, so I’ve joined a gym and started yoga classes. In early February, my partner Ian and I went with friends to Glencoe and we walked up to the Hidden Valley. It was brilliant fun, but I didn’t feel properly equipped so I have bought myself new boots and a waterproof jacket for next time. Now I have to go on another big walk in the wilds!

Excitingly, the Rewilders comes out on the 24th of March and has already had its first official review, in the National newspaper. Describing the novel as an unforgettable tale, Gemma McLauglin writes:

This short but stimulating tale based on the rediscovery of nature is aimed at eight- to 12-year-olds but can engage older readers. I was not only able to read it in one sitting but enjoyed every moment, having been pulled into a heartwarming story connecting humanity and the animals of the wild.

As the best kind of children’s books do, The Rewilders has an educational element that does not interfere with the story and characters but is instead carefully interwoven, making the subject matter fun. The conservational concept of restoring areas of wilderness for many reasons, especially the slowing down of climate change, is introduced through this book in a way that is easy to digest, understand and will encourage children to want to learn more about it. 

I was thrilled to receive my box of author copies and love the novel’s matt cover and orange sprayed edges. The dedication inside is completely heartfelt.