Michael Morpurgo

This story is not a story at all. It all happened. On New Year's Day Becky Morley begins to write her diary. By March, her world has changed for ever. Foot-and-mouth disease breaks out on a pig farm hundreds of miles from the Morleys' Devon home, but soon the nightmare is a few fields away. Local sheep are infected and every animal is destroyed. Will the Morleys' flock be next? Will their pedigree dairy herd, the sows with their piglets, and Little Josh, Becky's hand-reared lamb, survive? Or will they be slaughtered too? The waiting and hoping is the most agonizing experience of Becky's life . . .

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From the nation’s favourite storyteller comes a powerful, moving and heartwarming retelling of the beloved, unforgettable story of Black Beauty. A story championing kindness, compassion and humanity, and a rallying cry for the rights of animals, readers have fallen in love with the story of a horse called Black Beauty for 150 years. Now, this faithful retelling, beautifully written with Michael Morpurgo's inimitable warmth, offers a new generation of readers the chance to discover this unmissable children’s classic.​​ Illustrated in full colour throughout by acclaimed artist Tom de Freston, this stunning new edition will make the perfect gift for the whole family. Rediscover the extraordinary story of Black Beauty with this brand new retelling from the award-winning author of War Horse.

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From beloved writer Michael Morpurgo, comes a new collection of reflections, memoir, stories and wonder.'A beautiful, thoughtful book that brims with joy' KATE MOSSEIn Funny Thing, Getting Older, one of our most beloved novelists shares his reflections from a lifetime of writing stories about the world. Here, collected for the first time on Michael's 82nd birthday, are his thoughts on nature, childhood, writing, peace and war, and getting older. Some are deeply personal, some political, others in between. And woven in amongst them you will find a play, a poem or two, and even a few stories. Full of wonder, gentle humour and sharp observation, Funny Thing, Getting Older is a book to treasure.A story is like a kite. If I make it right, if I fly it right, it will swoop and soar. And it will please my heart when it's up there, floating on the wind.'Our master storyteller' JOANNA LUMLEY

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A beautiful second volume of Shakespeare retellings, from the master storyteller. Featuring re-tellings of a further eight of Shakespeare’s plays, and beautifully written with Michael Morpurgo’s warm, accessible and inimitable style, this is the much-anticipated follow up to Michael Morpurgo's highly-acclaimed Tales from Shakespeare, with a brand new collection of re-tellings with stunning artwork from eight different illustrators. This wonderful collection offers a new generation of readers the chance to discover even more of the magic of Shakespeare – the perfect introduction to the Bard and an unmissable book for children. Stunningly illustrated throughout with contributions from eight different artists, and published in a beautiful hardback edition, More Tales from Shakespeare is a glorious tribute to both Shakespeare and Michael Morpurgo, making this the perfect companion to the first collection, and a wonderful gift. Complete the set today! Featuring: Julius Caesar, illustrated by Dapo Adeola Much Ado About Nothing, illustrated by Axel Scheffler Antony and Cleopatra, illustrated by Ed Vere As You Like It, illustrated by Emily Gravett Othello, illustrated by Moera Timon of Athens, illustrated by Tom de Freston The Merchant of Venice, illustrated by Alona Millgram Cymbeline, illustrated by Michael Foreman

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A richly illustrated gift picture book edition of Michael Morpurgo’s classic wartime story War Horse, which has been captivating audiences young and old for 40 years. This powerful book for younger readers tells the enduring story of a friendship between a boy and his horse amid the turmoil of the First World War. For 40 years, War Horse has been helping children understand conflict. As we move beyond centenary commemorations and continue to strive for peace across the world, it remains an important book for young readers learning about the past. Review for the novel: War Horse is a story of universal suffering for a universal audience by a writer who ‘has the happy knack of speaking to both child and adult readers’ – Guardian 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.0

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Discover the beauty and wonder of trees in this stunningly illustrated collection of poetry and stories celebrating trees and what they mean to the world around us . . . Inspired by the woods around his home, the mighty forests that support our life on Earth, and the Ted Hughes poem which gives this book its title, My Heart Was a Tree is a celebration, and Sir Michael Morpurgo's love letter to trees.There are stories from an ancient olive remembering Odysseus and Penelope, and from a eucalyptus that gave shelter to a koala; from a piece of driftwood that was made into a chair, and from a tiny sapling carried by a refugee as a reminder of home.These are poems and stories that will amuse, move and energise families and readers of all ages to appreciate the beauty and wonder of trees.Yuval Zommer's beautiful, detailed illustrations bring the natural world to life, and make My Heart Was a Tree a book to pore over for hours and hours, discovering something new each time.

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THE NO 4 SUNDAY TIMES AND NO 1 SATURDAY TIMES BESTSELLER A GUARDIAN AND TIMES BEST BOOK OF 2025MICHAEL MORPURGO'S FIRST BOOK OF ADULT NON-FICTION IN FORTY YEARS'A joyous meditation on the season of new beginnings' THE TIMES'Uplifting and enchanting. A celebration of life by our master story-teller.' JOANNA LUMLEY'Spring is a delight. His love and knowledge of the countryside are profound. We are all the richer for what he sees.' PHILIP PULLMANMichael Morpurgo has lived on a farm deep in rural Devon for more than forty years. In Spring, he observes the season unfold around him, as fragile new shoots emerge, buds turn to blossom and grey skies give way to blue. As the natural world shakes off a long winter, Michael watches lambs being born on the farm, delights in a fanfare of bluebells in the woods, and sings to the birds, dressed in his wellies and dressing gown. He shares small moments of joy found in the back garden, as well as more dramatic encounters with sparrowhawks, hares and otters. With new poems and reminiscences about childhood and springs gone by, this is an enchanting memoir of a season from one of the world's best-loved authors.'Full of vibrant colour and most of all, heart and soul.' CLARE BALDING'A book full of love for, and gentle humour about, the rural lifestyle amid the most cherished of seasons.' COUNTRYLIFE'A reflective read - a gentle nostalgic step back in time to his life and his observations about how some things change and others don't.' DAILY MIRROR

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A warm and funny story for younger readers, about two foxes, a ghost and one of the biggest archaeological discoveries in living memory… ‘A heartwarming tale for animal lovers and football fans alike’ Guardian In a cosy den under a garden shed lives a family of foxes. They love to watch football, all foxes do. One day, they are surprised by a ghostly voice coming from deep underground. The stranger promises to grant the foxes their dearest wish if they only set him free. With their favourite football team on a losing streak, the foxes know exactly what to wish for. But can they trust the mysterious stranger?

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A poignant coming-of-age tale about a mountain-village girl and a bear – a tale of love, sacrifice and the challenge of making the right choices ‘Incredibly poignant . . . An utter delight’ LoveReading4Kids High in the mountains, in a tiny village, an abandoned bear cub is adopted by lonely orphan Roxanne. The two soon become best friends: inseparable and beloved by the whole village – until the arrival of a glamorous film crew who are looking for a dancing bear . . .

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An enchanting story told in three narratives – from a girl, a swallow and a young man – about love, family and the determination to follow your calling ‘Excellent’ The Times As Olly waits to hear from her brother, Matt, she watches the swallows preparing to leave for winter. Hero the swallow is about to embark on his long journey to Africa, not knowing the terrible dangers he will face on the way. And when Matt meets the children in the African orphanage – sick, injured and lonely – he knows he’s made the right decision, but he never could have dreamed of what might happen to him there …

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A sweeping story of love and rescue and an unforgettable journey back in time to the Second World War – from the master storyteller ‘Morpurgo has the power to captivate, to make the incredible a reality’ The Times, Children’s Book of the Week At her ancestors’ home in Ithaca, Australian-Greek girl Nandi discovers the extraordinary story of her Auntie Ellie; of how she fell in love and how she became an unsung hero of the Second World War. But Ellie has gone missing and Nandi has to find her. In her search, she will discover that Ellie was an even greater hero than she thought – and still is . . .

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A moving tale set during the Spanish Civil War, about the bond between a little boy and his bull, and their escape from a terrifying fate. ‘Once again, Morpurgo demonstrates his talent for stories of absolute clarity about big events’ Sunday Times Surrounded by animals on a farm in the Spanish countryside, Antonito’s life is simple but sublime. He and his calf, Paco are inseparable, and the future is an unknown possibility. That is until Antonito sees with his own eyes what happens to bulls in the bullring and resolves to escape with Paco to the hills. But Paco’s is not the only brutal fate they must run from. As civil war engulfs Spain, planes and soldiers arrive, and their bombs and guns may destroy Antonito’s whole world …

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A personal retelling of the true story of Joan of Arc, France’s saintly and heroic saviour from the fifteenth century, and her unwavering companion, a white sparrow. ‘A vivid retelling … moving and compelling’ Julia Eccleshare As war rages between France and England, the humble daughter of a peasant farmer faces the impossible: take charge of the French army and drive the English out. With unbelievable resolve – and Belami, a white sparrow who never deserts her – Joan returns to her people hope for the future. But while France may be saved, Joan herself faces persecution. Continuing to serve her God will take immense strength, and destiny may prove cruel…

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Ten stunning Shakespeare retellings from the master storyteller, with an introduction by Benedict Cumberbatch Featuring re-tellings of ten of Shakespeare’s plays, and beautifully written with Michael Morpurgo’s warm, accessible and inimitable style, this wonderful collection offers a new generation of readers the chance to discover the magic of Shakespeare – the perfect introduction to the Bard and an unmissable book for children. Stunningly illustrated throughout with contributions from ten different artists, each with a special connection to the author, and published in a beautiful hardback edition, Tales from Shakespeare is a glorious tribute to both Shakespeare and Michael Morpurgo, making this the perfect gift. A contemporary Lamb’s Tales for a new generation. Featuring: Macbeth, illustrated by Dapo AdeolaThe Taming of the Shrew, illustrated by Joelle AvelinoRomeo and Juliet, illustrated by Peter BaileyThe Tempest, illustrated by BarrouxTwelfth Night, illustrated by Ian BeckHenry V, illustrated by Christian BirminghamA Midsummer Night's Dream, illustrated by Alona MillgramHamlet, illustrated by Tom Clohosy ColeKing Lear, illustrated by Michael ForemanThe Winter's Tale, illustrated by Sam Usher

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The epic and heart-rending jungle adventure from a master storyteller ‘One of those novels that you know from the start is going to break your heart’ The Times After 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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A tale of fun and friendship from former Children’s Laureate and author of War Horse, Michael Morpurgo. Harry heard the key turn in the lock. He had already made up his mind to run. Harry is in trouble at school, and doesn’t like his stepfather or the new baby. Then he befriends Ocky, a chimpanzee from the circus. Ocky’s owner won’t mind if Harry borrows her for a bit, will he? But then Harry’s stepfather and the police find out. Harry and the chimp are soon on the run! A gripping and poignant animal 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 a hundred 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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A poignant coming-of-age tale about a mountain-village girl and a bear – a tale of love, sacrifice and the challenge of making the right choices ‘Incredibly poignant . . . An utter delight’ LoveReading4Kids High in the mountains, in a tiny village, an abandoned bear cub is adopted by lonely orphan Roxanne. The two soon become best friends: inseparable and beloved by the whole village – until the arrival of a glamorous film crew who are looking for a dancing bear . . .

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An unforgettable tale of struggle, adventure and hope from War Horse author and former Children's Laureate, Michael Morpurgo. ‘There’s a plague, a fever, call it what you will, sweeping this country, and it’s coming closer all the time.’ Sean and Annie have one chance to escape the potato famine and plague in Ireland. They survive a shipwreck and land safely in America searching for their father. But their new land is one of hardship and they live in poverty on the streets of Boston. However, their adventure is just beginning. Sean and Annie have one chance to escape the potato famine in Ireland, but they must leave their dying mother behind. They travel in search or their father, across rough seas and shipwrecks, to a new land of hardship and poverty: America. The streets of Boston are not quite lined with gold as the stories say. It’s a long and dangerous trip, but their family’s survival depends on it. And the journey there is only the beginning … Twist of Gold is an unforgettable tale of struggle, adventure and hope from War Horse author and former Children's Laureate, Michael Morpurgo. 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.

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A warm and funny story for younger readers, about two foxes, a ghost and one of the biggest archaeological discoveries in living memory… ‘A heartwarming tale for animal lovers and football fans alike’ Guardian In a cosy den under a garden shed lives a family of foxes. They love to watch football, all foxes do. One day, they are surprised by a ghostly voice coming from deep underground. The stranger promises to grant the foxes their dearest wish if they only set him free. With their favourite football team on a losing streak, the foxes know exactly what to wish for. But can they trust the mysterious stranger?

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The fresh and funny story of a little princess who hates the stuffy palace, but loves the creatures she meets in the garden, from the award-winning duo Sir Michael Morpurgo (Children's Laureate 2003-4) and Emily Gravett.Clara is a small, strong-willed princess who likes running wild, jumping ditches and climbing trees . . . but most of all, she loves collecting creepy-crawlies and making them her friends. That’s not easy with a bossy butler and a pernickety nanny always on your case. When Clara discovers that an ogre she keeps in her shoe under her bed isn’t an ogre at all, he offers her a way out of her predicament. There’s only one thing she needs to do . . .Written by one of Two Hoots's most acclaimed authors and illustrated by the award-winning Emily Gravett: the marvellous partnership who also created the bestselling picture book, A Song of Gladness.

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A fictionalised account of the real-life British soldier who let Hitler live in the First World War, and his attempt to put right his mistake – from a master storyteller ‘Brilliant. Historical fiction at its most magnificent’ Jackie French Billy Byron was one of the most decorated privates of the First World War, recognised for his unrivalled bravery. But what if it were possible to save one too many lives? As a soldier, Billy spared the life of a man after a battle in 1918. But when he later recognises him as Hitler, Billy is haunted by his own kindness and attempts to change the course of history. But going against his nature might prove harder than Billy expected, even when it means stopping evil in its tracks. . .

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Explore friendship, love, revenge, life and death in the pages of From Hereabout Hill. A spell-binding collection of short stories from the nation’s favourite storyteller, Michael Morpurgo. Michael Morpurgo demonstrates why he is considered to be the master story-teller with this diverse collection of stories for children. Included in this collection of short stories is a poignant tale about civil war, where a young girl hides from enemy soldiers in a public toilet; a haunting story of a little girl swept out to sea while collecting cowrie shells; and the moving account of two brothers, who, over the years, create a mental picture of their absent father. 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.

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A sweeping story of danger, adventure and the high seas. From the nation’s favourite storyteller, Michael Morpurgo. “We all knew what was going to happen. We’d seen it before. A ship about to founder staggers before she falls. A huge wave broke over her stern and she did not come upright again.” Life on the Scilly Isles in 1907 is bleak and full of hardship. Laura’s twin brother, Billy, disappears, and then a storm devastates everything. It seems there’s little hope. But then the Zanzibar is wrecked on the island’s rocks, and everything changes … The Wreck of the Zanzibar is a sea-swept story of storms, shipwrecks and survival … and a family tossed in the centre of it all. 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.

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A 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 Times It’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 . . .

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A tale of kindness triumphing over cruelty, of resilience, friendship and the value of looking forward rather than behind you – from a master storyteller ‘Pitch perfect’ Daily Mail When Patrick saves a greyhound puppy from drowning in the canal, he gives his beloved new pet the only name that feels right: Best Mate. But despite Patrick’s promise to look after Best Mate forever, it isn't long before the greyhound is thrust into a new life and threatened with a fate he will have to fight to escape. In the face of constant danger, Best Mate finds a way to survive. The real challenge will be finding a home . . .

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"There was an old green Fordson tractor in the back of Grandpa’s barn, always covered in cornsacks. When I was very little, I used to go in there, pull off the cornsacks, climb up and drive it all over the farm" Farm Boy is the extraordinary sequel to the beloved modern classic, War Horse. Fifty years ago, Grandpa’s horse Joey was sent away from the family farm to be a warhorse in World War I, and Grandpa joined the cavalry to find Joey and fight with him. Now Grandpa is telling his grandson all about Joey and revealing a secret which he has kept to himself all these years . . . Michael Foreman’s numerous books for children have earned him widespread recognition as one of the world’s leading illustrators. He has regularly collaborated with Terry Jones, Michael Morpurgo and others while several of his own books are also considered modern classics.

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