Inspired by our new Nature Corner, the latest book includes a prickly hedgehog, an unfortunate Fairy and a Musical Elf.
The stories are co-written by sisters Amanda and Emma Neville, daughters of the founder of the Audley End Miniature Railway, the late Lord Braybrooke. The sisters grew up close to the woods, and the stories capture memories from their childhood, surrounded by nature.
The book tells the story of Fern the Fairy, who whilst playing, gets stuck on the spines of an unsuspecting hedgehog. Working together with Willow the Elf, brother and sister Robin and Hetty use their wit and determination to free Fern.
Co-author Emma Neville said; “Amanda and I love creating these stories, set in the magical and enchanted woods at Audley End. We hope children will delight in the adventures of Hetty and Robin, while at the same time making them curious about the natural world which surrounds them. We very much hope this book will be the start of a series of adventures, with nature and wildlife at the centre of our tales.”
The book has been beautifully illustrated by Lauren Perkins, who has just graduated from Kingston with a 1st in Fine Art. Her style – a mixture of watercolour and pen – retains a traditional feel while at the same time appealing to a modern audience. Children can spot an array of animals, creatures and mini beasts within the pages, with the book culminating in a making project for families to try at home.