Let the Sunshine In!
Written by Craig Sheather, Illustrated by Annabelle Hale, Published by Woodslane Press, 2023
Frank is blind, but nonetheless loves the outdoors and the feel of the sun on his face. In this new story Frank and his friends (the Wilderness Warriors) go on a camping trip with the intention of getting up early to see the sunrise. However, on the pre-dawn walk to the lookout the torch batteries die and the group are plunged into darkness.
Frank takes over the lead, making his way confidently with his knowledge of the path and his stick, while the others follow. The story thus delights children while at the same time giving them an insight into the experience of blindness. This is the second in a series of books featuring Lyra, Frank and Charlie, the Wilderness Warriors.
Available for pre-order at Woodslane Press
Jack's Best Day Ever!
Written by Gabrielle Bassett, Illustrated by Annabelle Hale, Published by Woodslane Press, 2023
Jack loves anything that zooms, digs and races. But Jack doesn’t like change and he only ever wants to eat peanut butter sandwiches! This heartwarming, hilarious story of friendship explores how it feels to be neurodivergent, and introduces children to the idea that there is no one-size-fitsall way to be human.
"At the core of Gabrielle’s vivid and beautifully written tale is the blossoming friendship between two children, each with their own unique disability and neurodiversity. They observe each others preferences and ways of experiencing the world around them without judgement, with an open heart and a sense of adventure." Lenny De Vries (Disability & Neurodiversity Program Lead).
Available for purchase at Woodslane Press
Dad, Get Off Your Phone!
Written by Craig Sheather, Illustrated by Annabelle Hale, Published by Woodslane Press, 2023
Lyra is an active young lady who wants to get out and explore the world - but her father has turned into a Phone Zombie! He spends all his time lying on the couch working… talking… texting… reading… watching sports. Finally she persuades him to go for a walk with her in the bush where they see amazing creatures and Dad is gradually converted into a Nature Zombie!
This wholesome tale, hinting at the dangers of the over-use of screens and extolling the benefits of getting out into nature, turns the usual parent-berating-child narrative on its head. The story thus delights children while at the same time tempting them to follow in Lyras footsteps. This is first in an anticipated series of books featuring Lyra and the Wilderness Warriors.
Available for purchase at Woodslane Press
Baby Days
Written by Nicola Philp, Illustrated by Annabelle Hale, Published by Publishink Press, 2018
Baby Days, a going to bed book for babies and toddlers, is a simple, rhyming book following a group of babies through their evening activities, ending in a peacefully sleeping child. The images show babies from many different cultural backgrounds. It’s a wonderful book for multiple readings and children will have plenty to look at and talk about as they listen along.
Available for purchase in my store
