Books by Michael Morpurgo

Book SynopsisHeroism or cowardice? A stunning story of the First World War from a master storyteller 'Full of warmth as well as grief, conveying vividly how precious it is to be alive' Sunday Times As young Thomas Peaceful looks back over his childhood from the battlefields of the First World War, his memories are full of family life deep in the countryside. But the clock is ticking, and every moment Tommo spends remembering how things used to be, means another moment closer to something that will change his life for ever.Trade Review‘A deeply moving portrayal of camaraderie and courage, innocence and brutality’ Telegraph ‘[Tommo’s] journey from agricultural labourer to cannon fodder is movingly told . . . Morpurgo is expert at getting through to his readers. He writes here about events that should never be forgotten nor forgiven, and does so most effectively’ Independent ‘Full of warmth as well as grief, conveying vividly how precious it is to be alive’ Sunday Times ‘The best novel he’s written since The Butterfly Lion’ The Times ‘Deserved to last as an insight into the First World War in the same way as, say, The Silver Sword or Goodnight Mr Tom’ Telegraph ‘A poignant, elegiac novel’ Daily Mail

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Book Synopsis Before the Steven Spielberg film, before the National Theatre production, there was the classic children’s novel – War Horse. From the nation’s favourite storyteller, Michael Morpurgo. Trade ReviewPraise for Michael Morpurgo: “Michael Morpurgo writes brilliantly about war and animals, conveying the big emotions without preaching.” Guardian “There are few children’s writers as compelling as Michael Morpurgo.” Daily Express “Morpurgo, as always, is subtle and skillful, and incorporates social and moral issues into his writing without being self-righteous or detracting from the quality of the narrative”Elizabeth Reilly, British Council “The former children's laureate has the happy knack of speaking to both child and adult readers.” Guardian

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Book Synopsis An utterly magical of one boy’s desert island adventure – full of friendship, trust and humanity. From the nation’s favourite storyteller. Trade Review‘A dazzling adventure’ – The Times

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Book SynopsisThe polar bear is bored of his white environment and his hard life. But when his wish is granted, he realises to his cost that his arctic camouflage no longer works and he needs the advice of others to escape his prism...A moving tale of hopes and dreams from an award-winning picture book team.Trade Review'...a fable about the folly of trying to become something that you naturally are not. It is a multicoloured metamorphosis, gracefully told and elegantly concluded...'The Observer'...a beautifully told, lyrical work with sumptuous illustrations'The Bookseller

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Book SynopsisAuthor of War Horse, and bestselling storyteller Michael Morpurgo touched our hearts with this beautiful story of a boy, his lost dog, and the lengths he would go to be reunited. This timely story of battle-scarred Afghanistan delivers a masterful portrait of war, love, and friendship. With the horrors of war bearing down on them, Aman and his mother are barely surviving in an Afghan cave, and staying there any longer will end horribly. The only comfort Aman has is Shadow, the loyal spaniel that shows up from places unknown, it seems, just when Aman needs him most. Aman, his mother, and Shadow finally leave the destroyed cave in hopes of escaping to England, but are held at a checkpoint, and Shadow runs away after being shot at by the police. Aman and his mother escape--without Shadow. Aman is heart-broken. Just as they are getting settled as free citizens in England, they are imprisoned in a camp with locked doors and a barbed wire fence. Their only h

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Book SynopsisKensuke's Kingdomis a true children's classic by former Children''s LaureateMichael Morpurgo, the creator ofWar Horse.I heard the wind above me in the sails. I remember thinking, this is silly, you haven't got your safety harness on, you haven't got your lifejacket on. You shouldn't be doing this I was in the cold of the sea before I could even open my mouth to scream.Washed up on an island in the Pacific, Michael struggles to survive on his own. With no food and no water, he curls up to die. When he wakes, there is a plate beside him of fish, of fruit, and a bowl of fresh water. He is not alone From the author of War Horse, Private Peaceful, An Eagle in the Snow, Listen to the Moon, and I Believe in Unicorns comes a stunning children's story loved by kids, teachers and parents alike. One of the best books for children aged 10 and up. Michael Morpurgo has written more than one hundred books and won the Whitbread Award, the Smarties Award, the Circle of Gold Award, the Children's BookTrade ReviewVoted one of Booktrust’s ‘Best 100 Books of the past 100 Years’ 2021 “This is a wonderful book, a modern day Robinson Crusoe and is simply too good to miss.”Wendy Cooling

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Book Synopsis A lyrical and moving tale of a young boy growing up in Africa, and his lifelong friendship with a white lion, from a master storyteller Trade Review‘The Butterfly Lion is unique among animals and books, and will touch all hearts – both young and old’ Virginia McKenna, Born Free Foundation

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Book SynopsisA charming series of adventures for younger readers, featuring a family of all sorts of animals that live in the farmyard behind the tumble-down barn on Mudpuddle FarmSix fantastic stories in one volume!Mossop's Last Chance:There's mice in my barley sacks, there's rats in my roof and now there's mice in the corn bin. This time I've had enough. If you aren't up to the job, you will have to go.Mossop the old farm cat likes to sleep and not much else! So when Farmer Rafferty tells him to catch twenty-six mice by sunset, all the animals have to pull together to give Mossop one last chanceAlbertine, Goose Queen:A fox is on the loose, and all the animals except Albertine the goose have hidden themselves inside. Albertine is safe on her island in the pond at least so she thinks, until the fox starts swimming towards herJigger's Day Off:Jigger the sheepdog has just one day off a year. Just one day to chase all those little animals hiding in the corn. But even the best made plans can go wrongTrade ReviewPraise for the Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips: "…a succinctly engaging tear-jerker, it is also full of happiness and affection and has a joyful ending… It is also about people who care enough to look after each other, offering a lesson in life as well as history. Sunday Times, Children's Book of the Week "From the first sentence of a Michael Morpurgo book, you know you are in the hands of a natural storyteller." Guardian "As always, Morpurgo writes with solid confidence in a voice that's gentle yet spellbinding." Evening Standard "Classic Morpurgo brilliance" Bookseller's choice, Publishing News "…Michael Morpurgo weaves a touching tale that's full of surprises. A master storyteller at his best." Funday Times

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Book SynopsisI disappeared on the night before my twelfth birthday.Gorgeous new colour illustrations for the best-selling Kensuke's Kingdom. Washed up on an island in the Pacific, Michael struggles to survive on his own. With no food and no water, he curls up to die. When he wakes, there is a plate beside him of fish, of fruit, and a bowl of fresh water. He is not alone . . .Kensuke's Kingdom is a gripping adventure from the author of War Horse. Michael Morpurgo has written more than one hundred books for children and won the Whitbread Award, the Smarties Award, the Circle of Gold Award, the Children’s Book Award and has been short-listed for the Carnegie Medal four times.Kensuke’s Kingdom was shortlisted for the Whitbread Prize and won the FCB Award.‘A dazzling adventure’ - The TimesLoved by children, teachers and parents alike, Michael Morpurgo, the former Children's Laureate, has w

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Book SynopsisA stunning story of friendship and our natural world set against the backdrop of the First World War. From the nation's favourite storyteller, Michael Morpurgo.Gracie and her friend Daniel have always been warned to stay away from the Birdman and his side of the island. But then they find a message in the sand and discover the Birdman is not who they thought.But his warnings to stay away from the abandoned and cursed Samson Island stay with them. And when those warnings seem to be coming true, Gracie and Daniel must find out what the Birdman knows before it''s too late Why the Wales Came is a gripping historical tale full of adventure and friendship, from the author of War Horse.Michael Morpurgo has written more than one hundred books for children and won the Whitbread Award, the Smarties Award, the Circle of Gold Award, the Children's Book Award and has been short-listed for the Carnegie Medal four times.Trade ReviewPraise for Why the Whales Came: 'A memorable adventure' – Booklist Praise for Michael Morpurgo: “Michael Morpurgo writes brilliantly about war and animals, conveying the big emotions without preaching.” Guardian “There are few children’s writers as compelling as Michael Morpurgo.” Daily Express “Morpurgo, as always, is subtle and skillful, and incorporates social and moral issues into his writing without being self-righteous or detracting from the quality of the narrative”Elizabeth Reilly, British Council “The former children's laureate has the happy knack of speaking to both child and adult readers.” Guardian

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Book SynopsisDISCOVER AND CHERISH THIS BEAUTIFUL HARDBACK 40th ANNIVERSARY ILLUSTRATED EDITION OF THE BELOVED MODERN CLASSIC, WAR HORSE.Before the Steven Spielberg film, before the National Theatre production, there was the classic and nation's favourite children's novelIn the deadly chaos of the First World War, one horse witnesses the reality of battle from both sides of the trenches. Bombarded by artillery, with bullets knocking riders from his back, Joey tells a powerful story of the truest friendships surviving in terrible times.One horse has the seen the best and the worst of humanity. The power of war and the beauty of peace. This is his story.With a stunning new cover from fine arts photographer, Nine Francois and chapter illustrations from award-winning war artist, George Butler.National treasure, Michael Moropurgo's, War Horse was adapted by Steven Spielberg as a major motion picture with Jeremy Irvine, Emily Watson, and Benedict Cumberbatch. The National Theatre production opened in 2007Trade ReviewPraise for Michael Morpurgo: “Michael Morpurgo writes brilliantly about war and animals, conveying the big emotions without preaching.” Guardian “There are few children’s writers as compelling as Michael Morpurgo.” Daily Express “Morpurgo, as always, is subtle and skillful, and incorporates social and moral issues into his writing without being self-righteous or detracting from the quality of the narrative”Elizabeth Reilly, British Council “The former children's laureate has the happy knack of speaking to both child and adult readers.” Guardian

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Book SynopsisAn epic story of determination and love, about one family's escape from the Allied bombing of Dresden in the Second World WarCaptivating' TelegraphIt's 1945, and the bombing of Dresden is imminent. Before the bombs start to fall, Lizzie's zookeeper mother brings home the one animal she can't bear to lose: Marlene, the elephant.When Lizzie and her family join the thousands of other refugees fleeing the city, they end up with more than one unusual companion . . .Trade Review‘Its text punctuated by lovely, fluid ink and wash illustrations by Michael Foreman, it deserves a prominent place on school library bookshelves and, if there is any justice in the world, in bookshops’ Guardian ‘A thrilling and moving new novel about an extraordinary animal caught up in a very human war, for anyone who loved The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips or The Butterfly Lion!’ Waterstones ‘For readers aged eight and over, this captivating novel offers an insight into how Hitler came to power, refracted through the gaze of the young narrator’ Telegraph ‘Following the stage success of War Horse, Michael Morpurgo returns with another gem in his animals in war series, An Elephant in the Garden’ Telegraph

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Book SynopsisFriend or Foe is a gripping World War II story from War Horse author and former Children''s Laureate Michael Morpurgo.Evacuated from London, David and Tucky feel like the war is a long way away from their new life in the countryside. Then one night the skyline of the moor is lit up with gun flashes, and the distant crump of bombing miles away brings the war back to them and shatters their new-found peace. When a German bomber crashes, the boys feel they should hate the airmen inside. But one of them saves David''s life In the tradition of Goodnight Mr Tom, Carrie''s War, and The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, Friend or Foe is a novel that takes children to the heart of a tumultuous period in history.From the author of War Horse (now a major motion picture directed by Steven Spielberg) comes a stunning children's story loved by kids, teachers and parents alike. Michael Morpurgo has written more than forty books and won the Whitbread Award, the Smarties Award, the Circle of Gold Award, the

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Book SynopsisA heart-wrenching and beautiful First World War novel where, in the face of fear and division, love, courage and kindness allow life to go on after unthinkable tragedyShortlisted for the Costa Book AwardsOur national treasure . . . Hugely moving' New StatesmanWhen Alfie Wheatcroft and his father find an injured girl alone on one of Scilly's uninhabited islands, they have no idea where she's come from or who she is. Able to speak only one word, Lucy', the girl is a mystery to everyone even herself.While the Wheatcrofts love her as one of their own, their fellow islanders are filled with wartime suspicion. As hostility mounts and hope dwindles, the key to Lucy's lost memories may lie just beyond the shoreline . . .

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Book SynopsisA delightful tale of victory against all odds from master storyteller, Michael Morpurgo, lavishly illustrated by Michael Foreman.Trade Review“This is a heart-warming tale for animal lovers and footbal fans alike” The Guardian ‘Michael Morpurgo has an impeccable track record in bringing historical events to life’ The Daily Mail “This sweet story weaves Michael Morpurgo's effortless storytelling with ancient and very recent history.” Booktrust Praise for Michael Morpurgo: “Michael Morpurgo writes brilliantly about war and animals, conveying the big emotions without preaching.” Guardian “Champagne quality over a wide range of subjects.” Daily Telegraph “There are few children’s writers as compelling as Michael Morpurgo.” Daily Express “Morpurgo, as always, is subtle and skilful, and incorporates social and moral issues into his writing without being self-righteous or detracting from the quality of the narrative”Elizabeth Reilly, British Council “The former children's laureate has the happy knack of speaking to both child and adult readers.” Guardian

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Book SynopsisThree brilliant storiesthat will captivateyoung readers by War Horse author and former Children''s Laureate,Michael Morpurgo.The Marble CrusherDoes Mr Manners, the headmaster, really have a machine that crushes marbles? Albert thinks so.Colly''s BarnColly the owl and Screecher the swallow band together to save the barn.ConkerNick beats the bully, Stevie Rooster, and becomes Conker king. But can he rescue a mistreated dog while searching for the best conker?Michael Morpurgo, demonstrates why he is considered to be the master storyteller in these animal tales that are wonderful for engaging early readers. aged seven years and up.Michael has written more thanone hundredbooks for children including An Eagle in the Snow, Listen to the Moon, Private Peaceful, and An Elephant in the Gardenand won the Whitbread Award, the Smarties Award, the Circle of Gold Award, the Children's Book Award and has been short-listed for the Carnegie Medal four times.

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Book SynopsisThe moving and inspiring story of a family's struggle with racism and war, and about the importance of finding out who you areA simple story, beautifully told' Sunday ExpressMichael never knew his father, an RAF pilot lost in the war. And his French mother, heartbroken and passionate, doesn't like to talk about her husband. But then Auntie Snowdrop gives Michael a medal, followed by a photograph, which begin to reveal a hidden history.A story of love and loss. A story that will change everything and reveal to Michael who he really is . . .

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Book SynopsisA true story of two brothers and the war that changed everything.Michael Morpurgo's wonderful storytelling and Barroux's stunning artwork combine to tell the true story of Michael's uncles against the epic backdrop of World War Two.Francis and Pieter are brothers. As the shadow of one war lingers, and the rumbles of another approach, the brothers argue. Francis is a fierce pacifist, while Pieter signs up to fight. What happens next will change the course of Francis's life forever and throw him into the mouth of the wolf.

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Book SynopsisThe epic and heart-rending jungle adventure from a master storytellerOne of those novels that you know from the start is going to break your heart' The TimesAfter his father is killed in Iraq, a surprise trip to Indonesia seems the perfect escape for Will and his mum. That is, until the elephant he is riding along the beach, Oona, spooks. As Will sees a huge wave crashing in, Oona runs into the jungle with Will holding on for dear life.With nothing but the clothes on his back and both parents surely lost, Will wonders if there is much left for him in the world. But with Oona beside him, the jungle might turn out not to be so lonely . . .

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Book SynopsisA heartwarming tale of courage, set against the backdrop of the Second World War, about a deserted village, a lifelong friendship and one very adventurous cat!A master storyteller at his best' Sunday TimesIt's 1943. Lily lives in a seaside village and her life is scarcely touched by the war. Until one day when the villagers are all told to move out of their homes.Soon, the whole area is out of bounds, as the allied forces prepare to invade France. But Tips, Lily's cat, has other ideas and returns to the forbidden area. Lily decides to enter the danger zone to look for Tips herself . . .Trade Review“A master storyteller at his best” Sunday Times "From the first sentence of a Michael Morpurgo book, you know you are in the hands of a natural storyteller" Guardian “Classic Morpurgo brilliance” Bookseller’s choice, Publishing News "…a succinctly engaging tear-jerker, it is also full of happiness and affection and has a joyful ending… It is also about people who care enough to look after each other, offering a lesson in life as well as history” Sunday Times, Children's Book of the Week "…Michael Morpurgo weaves a touching tale that's full of surprises. A master storyteller at his best" Funday Times "As always, Morpurgo writes with solid confidence in a voice that's gentle yet spellbinding" Evening Standard

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Book SynopsisFrom master storyteller MICHAEL MORPURGO, and illustrated by the award-winning EMMA CHICHESTER CLARK, comes a surprising, charming and uplifting twist on The Wizard of Oz, told by a very special and unforgettable character: Dorothy's pet dog, Toto. A perfect, collectible gift for all children (and children at heart).I was there, Papa Toto said, and those magic words sent shivers down my spine. It was going to be the Wizard story. Dorothy and me were both there.We were all silent, snuggled up together, waiting, waiting.Then Papa Toto beganWhen a twister descends on their Kansas farm, Toto and his owner Dorothy hide in the house only to be plucked into the air and whisked away!Coming down with a crash in the mysterious land of Oz, the pair meet a series of extraordinary characters: a scarecrow who believes he has no brains, a tin man without a heart, and a cowardly lion who may not be as cowardly as he thinks he is.But Toto and Dorothy are desperate to return home after all, home is hoTrade Review“Please invite this wonderful story in, you won’t regret it. History is rarely more movingly alive.” Morris Gleitzman Praise for Michael Morpurgo:“Michael Morpurgo writes brilliantly about war and animals, conveying the big emotions without preaching.” Guardian “Champagne quality over a wide range of subjects.” Daily Telegraph “There are few children’s writers as compelling as Michael Morpurgo.” Daily Express “Morpurgo, as always, is subtle and skilful, and incorporates social and moral issues into his writing without being self-righteous or detracting from the quality of the narrative”Elizabeth Reilly, British Council “The former children's laureate has the happy knack of speaking to both child and adult readers.” Guardian

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Book SynopsisAn enchanting take on the legend of King Arthur from War Horse author and former Children''s Laureate, Michael Morpurgo.Marooned on a sandbank, a boy faces certain death. With the sea closing in and the current about to drag him to a watery grave, his final wish is to see heaven. Waking in a strange bed, the boy meets an old man sitting by the fire with his dog. It is Arthur, the great warrior king of legend, and from his lips the boy hears of Camelot, chivalry, magic, evil and betrayal.Arthur, High King of Britain is a gripping historical adventure from the master storyteller of An Eagle in the Snow, Listen to the Moon, Shadow, and An Elephant in the Garden. Michael Morpurgo has written more than forty books and won the Whitbread Award, the Smarties Award, the Circle of Gold Award, the Children's Book Award and has been short-listed for the Carnegie Medal four times.

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Book SynopsisFrom squeaks and peeps to growls and howls, all animal life is here. A treasure trove of animal delights, chosen by the UK's best-loved storyteller.

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Book SynopsisMichael and his family are sailing around the world in their yacht, the "Peggy Sue". Michael falls overboard and is washed up on a remote island. He must learn to survive on his own, until the day he discovers he is not alone.

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Book SynopsisA spellbinding children’s story from from War Horse author and former Children's Laureate, Michael Morpurgo - now with a brand new cover look.Toby Jenkins doesn’t like boarding school. He gets called Jinks and thinks he will never fit in. But then he meets a strange boy named Christopher who believes that he is the second coming of Jesus Christ. When the village boy ‘oiks’ start a war with the schoolboy ‘toffs’, Toby is caught in the middle. Can Christopher provide the miracle that Toby needs?A brilliant evocation of school life from the master storyteller.Michael has written more than one hundred books for children including An Eagle in the Snow, Listen to the Moon, Private Peaceful, and An Elephant in the Garden. He has won the Whitbread Award, the Smarties Award, the Circle of Gold Award, the Children’s Book Award and has been short-listed for the Carneg

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Book SynopsisInspired by the true story of Walter Tull, the first black officer in the British army. A novel about families, identity and loss by bestselling award-winning author of WAR HORSE.Trade Review“A simple story, beautifully told.” – Sunday Express PRAISE FOR MICHAEL MORPURGO “As ever, Morpurgo's warmth and humanity suffuse a story of courage, love and hope.” – Amanda Craig, The Times “Morpurgo is a virtuoso at conjuring vibrant stories that draw on historical events." – The Observer Review “Champagne quality over a wide range of subjects.” – The Telegraph

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Book SynopsisJoin the fun on the farm!A charming story from award-winning author Michael Morpurgo, hilariously illustrated throughout by Shoo Rayner, and perfect for readers of 5 and up.Two funny farmyard stories for younger readers.Martians at Mudpuddle Farm:Have Martians landed on Mudpuddle Farm? Farmer Rafferty seems to think so. Now it's up to Albertine, Goose Queen, to work it out. Luckily she's the cleverest goose in the whole world, so if anyone knows what to do, she willMum's the Word:Something strange is going on at Mudpuddle Farm. Egbert the goat is not himself at all. Instead of grumbling, he's singing and dancing! And he's even greedier than usualTrade ReviewPraise for Michael Morpurgo: “Michael Morpurgo writes brilliantly about war and animals, conveying the big emotions without preaching.” Guardian “Champagne quality over a wide range of subjects.” Daily Telegraph “There are few children’s writers as compelling as Michael Morpurgo.” Daily Express “Morpurgo, as always, is subtle and skilful, and incorporates social and moral issues into his writing without being self-righteous or detracting from the quality of the narrative”Elizabeth Reilly, British Council “The former children's laureate has the happy knack of speaking to both child and adult readers.” Guardian

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Book SynopsisA great countryside tale. Chris, Lisa and Tom love their hide-out – but it has to stay a secret from the farmer who owns the land! From the multi award-winning master storyteller Michael Morpurgo. High quality cream paper and a special easy to read font ensure a smooth read for all. A great countryside tale. Chris, Lisa and Tom spend their days in their secret hide-out in the Castle, an old WWII pill-box. But the Castle is on Old Rafferty's land, and he hates kids. They find themselves in big trouble when some local lads lock them in and there is no one around for miles…High quality cream paper and a special easy to read font ensure a smooth read for all.

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Book SynopsisPenguin presents the audio CD edition of The Snowman by Michael Morpurgo, inspired by the original story by Ransom Riggs, read by Richard Armitage.One December morning, James is thrilled to wake up to see snow falling. He spends the whole day making his perfect snowman; he has coal eyes, an old green hat and scarf and a tangerine nose... just like the snowman from his favourite story. That night, something magical happens- the Snowman comes to life! He and James take to the skies on a magical adventure where they meet someone very special. Inspired by the timeless tale, Michael Morpurgo and Robin Shaw have created the perfect Christmas story for the whole family.Trade ReviewIn Raymond Briggs' story, a boy's dream comes true. Somehow, Michael Morpurgo makes Briggs' story come true. It's a delightful magic track. It has all the wonder of reading the Snowman for the first time. * Colin Firth *On seeing the cover for the very first time I felt just as James might have felt as he glanced out of the window at The Snowman for the first time. The magic of The Snowman never truly melts and in this adaptation Michael Morpurgo and Robin Shaw have faithfully honoured the spirit of the original story whilst adding a new magical lustre to appeal to a whole new, very lucky generation. * Emma O'Donovan, The Book Sniffer blog *Just wonderful! Loyal to the first story with fresh elements that flesh it out for older readers. A timeless tale, freshly made but with the same magic at its heart - just like a real snowman. It's rare that a remake is ever as good as the original but in this case, great care has been given to ensure it is both complementary and a tribute to the book that means so much to lots of people. * Alex Lloyd, Books with Baby blog *What a magical book! The Snowman is such a lovely read (for young and old alike) and has already made me excited for Christmas. It's truly heartwarming. * Hannah Timson, First News *The Snowman by Michael Morpurgo not only brings a much-loved tale to a new audience, it brings with it an extra layer of festive magic. We predict this book will fast become as much a part of every family Christmas as snuggling down with a hot chocolate to catch the classic animation on TV. * JUNIOR Magazine *Michael Morpurgo plays homage to the classic tale of The Snowman, bringing James, his family and snowy friend beautifully to life through his words, in a story to melt your heart. All the classic elements of the original story are here, in a book which will surely be at the heart of a magical Christmas for many families, to read alongside the picture book and the film. * Jayne Gould, Ipswich Children's Book Group *

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