The Faber Book of Bedtime Stories ~ Blog Tour, featuring Emma Carroll

Kate Heap

Nov 8

Bedtime stories are often the stories we remember the most. I have fond memories of the light blue bedtime story book I had as a child. It was full of unusual characters, far away lands and short, comforting tales that would send me off to sleep. My sister and I would take turns choosing one or two stories for Mum or Dad to read to us before we were tucked in for lights out.

The Faber Book of Bedtime Stories is destined to become one of those cherished books. Written with slightly older children in mind, it is overflowing with captivating stories from some of the best current middle grade authors. Readers will be spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting each evening's special story. This beautiful hardback book would make a wonderful gift for families.

Sarah McIntyre's illustrations are magical. Bright and curious, they carry readers through the story with images that are both fun and comforting. The small icons that adorn the pages give each story its own identity and help children to find just what they're looing for. The sprialling dragonfly of Emma Carroll's story reminds readers of the river where Gran finds her spark.

The Happiness Safari is a gorgeous cross-generational story about discovering what's really important. Maddie didn't have the summer holiday she was hoping for because her Gran was ill. Now it's time to go back to school. When her teacher announces the dreaded "What I did on my summer holiday" project, her heart sinks. Not only does she have nothing to say about her summer but her Gran seems to have lost all of her usual spark and confidence, refusing to any of the things she used to enjoy. Inspired by another child's project, Maddie comes up with an idea - she'll create a checklist of activities that Gran might enjoy and that will, hopefully, get her out of the house. Through determination and a new friend, Maddie learns that people are not always as they first appear and happiness can be found in unusual ways.

I'm thrilled to welcome Emma Carroll to Scope for Imagination with some very special insights into her story, The Happiness Safari, and her favourite bedtime story as a child. Perhaps you can help her remember its name.

Tell us about your story
My story 'The Happiness Safari ' is all about finding happiness in the ordinary, everyday parts of our lives. When Maddie's gran falls ill & the family holiday is cancelled, Maddie dreads returning to school in September because she's sure her classmates will have all had better summer holidays than hers, especially the class show- off Jimmy. She's also desperate to cheer up her poor gran, though nothing seems to be working.

What was your favourite bedtime story as a child?
It was a story about a girl who went on night time adventures on a broomstick that waited by her window every night. For the life of me I can't remember the story's name- if anyone can help, please shout! - but it was my absolute favourite & I had it on almost constant loan from the library.

Don't miss the rest of the stops on this enormous tour! A huge thank you to Faber Children's for inviting me to take part.