Sam Usher – illustratör

The classic story of finding fun on the farm from the nation’s favourite storyteller, gorgeously re-illustrated by Sam Usher.From Sir Michael Morpurgo comes a classic story of one small boy, and one very lucky duck…Sam is a city boy through and through – and isn’t looking forward to his school trip to Nethercott Farm at all.But busy days of farm work, animals and learning all about nature weave their magic – and when Sam finds a duck about to be dinner, he is determined to save him. But how?This warm and magical story is gloriously brought to life by the incredible illustrative talent of Sam Usher, and is set on the real-life Nethercott Farm – a member of Farms for City Children – the charity that offers urban children from all over the country the chance to live and work together on a real farm and experience the magic of the English countryside.

The Kingdom of Izzambard is in trouble. Big trouble. Griselda, the Master Clockmaker, has stopped time and released her mechanical birds to spread chaos and misery. They spy on anyone who might believe in the old ways of magic and laughter and the whole kingdom lives in fear. Brother and sister, Leo and Ella Leggit are clever enough and brave enough to stop Griselda and her birds - they just don't know it yet. But when a magical train puffs into their lives, driven by the mysterious Bartholomew Buckle, all that changes . . . Will Leo and Ella be able to bring magic back to Izzambard once again and get home in time for fish fingers? Hop on board The Secret Railway to find out!

A wonderfully murky, carnivalesque world of intrigue, unexpected friendships and mysteries solved.Sheba the wolf girl joins an unusual troupe of performers that includes Pyewacket, a witch's imp; Gigantus the giant and Sister Moon, a knife thrower. For the first time in her life she feels she might make true friends, and learn a real stage craft. But soon that's not all she has to think about . . .Children are being sucked into the Thames and there have been strange sightings of a mechanical monster. The carnival troupe know first-hand that looks only tell half a story - they become determined to find these forgotten children. Perhaps they will unravel the mystery that has defied even the law!Illustrated with black and white artwork from superstar illustrator, Sam Usher, and the first in a brand new series!'Thrilling, original, full of zest and wit.' The London Times'An atmospheric and exciting read.' BookTrust'A page-turning adventure.' The Daily Mirror

The first figure raises his crossbow, tilting his head to pinpoint the exact position of the thing in the bushes. It has stopped running now, and is muttering something. Some kind of prayer, a call for its mother, its father: anyone who might help it.Something sinister is going on in the stinking slums of London. Sideshow acts are going missing . . . men wearing animal masks and eye goggles are hunting them down and killing them for sport. But who are this fiendish Hunters' Club? And what is the reason for their cruel game?Sheba the wolfgirl and Pyewacket the witch's imp know all about life in a sideshow. But now they are the Carnival, private investigators working to help unusual people like them. Teaming up with new recruits half-cat Inji, her extraordinary brother, the armadillo-like Sil and Glyph the psychic, it's a race against time . . . to track down the mask-wearing villains, before anyone else comes to harm!

There were three men and two women . . . One had half a face. One had iron legs. The others all had one or both arms missing. There were pincers and claws and guns instead. And you could hear them ticking. Ticking all the time.When Sheba the wolfgirl learns that her old friend Sister Moon is being held prisoner by the Spider and its gang of mechanical villains, the Carnival immediately launch a daring rescue mission to Paris. Along with Pyewacket the witch's imp and catlike Inji, Sheba joins forces with Moon's son Remy, a boy who can bend shadows to his will.Deep underground in the catacombs of Paris there is a map, which they must find to trade for Moon's freedom. But who is this mysterious Spider? And why is she so desperate for an old map? With the city under siege from Prussian invaders and the Spider's henchmen on their trail, the Carnival will need to use all their powers to save their friend . . .

I Love My Bike tells the story of a girl's first experience with her bike, and is filled with beautiful illustrations and a heartwarming message of perseverance.There’s a flame on the frameand I love how it feelsfrom my head to my heelswhen my feet push the pedalsand the pedals turn the wheels.I love my bike. I Love My Bike is a picture book about a daughter learning to ride a bike with the help of her father. It’s also about that exhilarating feeling you get when you succeed at something for the first time as a child. And, most importantly, it’s about learning that when you fall off, the best thing to do is get back on again!The story is told through wonderful watercolours from critically acclaimed artist Sam Usher, with words from children's poet Simon Mole.Celebrating both family relationships and being outdoors, this is the perfect read for families everywhere.

A lyrical, joyful charity picture book about gratitude and community, inspired by the efforts of key workers during the coronavirus pandemic.

Aditi the cat is loved by her little girl, but her owner is heartbroken when she disappears! Will she be found? This beautifully illustrated rhyming story will be loved by children and parents alike.I love my catThat shiny black furThat tiny white ringthat goes right round the tip of her tailI think it means she might be magic!A little girl loves her cat, from the tip of her tail to the way she opens doors and even has taught herself to drink from the tap!But one day, the cat tries to nibble at her toast and she won't stop, and then she digs her claws in, and then they both fall over… and the little girl shouts, 'Out!'She is heartbroken when the cat doesn't come home for dinner. But after a week of the cat being missing, finally she returns.This beautifully illustrated title has lyrical rhyming text from award-winning children's poet and author Simon Mole which will brings the narrative to life.This is the follow-up to I Love My Bike and is the second in a picture-book series based on first experiences and the magic in the everyday.

This delightful rhyming picture book follows a family as they explore London, one of the world's most famous capital cities!Come! Board the London Busand see the London sights with us.At any time, hop off, explore!Then climb back on, and ride some more…As a family of four spend a day exploring London, fun, child-friendly poems introduce readers to our wonderful capital city, and all its secrets. Well-known landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the London Eye, plus inescapable features like rain and taking tea, all get Patty Toht's witty treatment.Non-fiction facts provide more information about the poetry subjects, while rising star Sam Usher brings them to life with his signature style and humour.This gorgeous celebration of London will be loved by both tourists and those who call the city home.

"Coulthard dedicates the book to her own mother, who died last year - and her skill is to convey that sense of loss entirely through the eyes of her child narrator. The story will resonate with any young reader who has lost a grandparent; but it will appeal to many an adult too." The Telegraph   This poignant story of love and loss takes readers on a heartfelt journey through the changing seasons as a little girl visits her poorly Nana. Each time she visits, they remember all the special adventures they have shared together. When Nana dies, she leaves the little girl a box of keepsakes that she has secretly collected from their moments together. Through these shared memories, this moving story gently touches on the concept of bereavement in a way that is both comforting and easy for young children to understand. Based on the author’s personal experience, The Fun We Had was inspired by the bond shared between her young son and his Nana who passed away from cancer just before it was published. She wanted to write something about loss that would ultimately celebrate how powerful and precious our memories of loved ones are — especially when we no longer have them close. This book serves as a gentle introduction to the concept of loss, helping children process their emotions and find comfort in the memories of their loved ones. Charissa Coulthard's lyrical rhyming text captures the essence of love, loss, and the comfort found in cherished memories. Sam Usher’s exquisite illustrations are full of beautiful and touching details. With a focus on treasuring joyful moments, even in times of illness. The recurring message that their love is enough – even if they can’t make their loved one better – provides comfort and reassurance to young readers dealing with the sickness or loss of a loved one. Perfect for families experiencing bereavement, seeking a gentle way to introduce the topic to young children.

"Coulthard dedicates the book to her own mother, who died last year - and her skill is to convey that sense of loss entirely through the eyes of her child narrator. The story will resonate with any young reader who has lost a grandparent; but it will appeal to many an adult too." The TelegraphThe Fun We Had

This poignant story of love and loss takes readers on a heartfelt journey through the changing seasons as a little girl visits her poorly Nana. Each time she visits, they remember all the special adventures they have shared together. When Nana dies, she leaves the little girl a box of keepsakes that she has secretly collected from their moments together. Through these shared memories, this moving story gently touches on the concept of bereavement in a way that is both comforting and easy for young children to understand.  Based on the author’s personal experience, The Fun We Had was inspired by the bond shared between her young son and his Nana who passed away from cancer just before it was published. She wanted to write something about loss that would ultimately celebrate how powerful and precious our memories of loved ones are — especially when we no longer have them close.   This book serves as a gentle introduction to the concept of loss, helping children process their emotions and find comfort in the memories of their loved ones. Charissa Coulthard's lyrical rhyming text captures the essence of love, loss, and the comfort found in cherished memories. Sam Usher’s exquisite illustrations are full of beautiful and touching details. With a focus on treasuring joyful moments, even in times of illness. The recurring message that their love is enough – even if they can’t make their loved one better – provides comfort and reassurance to young readers dealing with the sickness or loss of a loved one. Perfect for families experiencing bereavement, seeking a gentle way to introduce the topic to young children.

My dad leaned in and whispered: "When you're big what will you be?"And with his words, I hugged him tight and told him: "Super Me!"On a day out with his dad, a boy searched high and low for superheroes so he can find out how to be one when he grows up. He's heard they're super fast, super strong and good at rescues - and he needs to ask them how it's done!Each time the boy is disappointed not to find a superhero, his dad gently points out the ways in which the boy has the superpower already - that, in fact, if you look closely, there are heroes all around... A heartwarming family adventure from the creators of The Fun We Had.Acclaim for The Fun We Had: "This is how to tell little ones about grief" - Telegraph

My dad leaned in and whispered: "When you're big what will you be?"And with his words, I hugged him tight and told him: "Super Me!"On a day out with his dad, a boy searched high and low for superheroes so he can find out how to be one when he grows up. He's heard they're super fast, super strong and good at rescues - and he needs to ask them how it's done!Each time the boy is disappointed not to find a superhero, his dad gently points out the ways in which the boy has the superpower already - that, in fact, if you look closely, there are heroes all around... A heartwarming family adventure from the creators of The Fun We Had.Acclaim for The Fun We Had: "This is how to tell little ones about grief" - Telegraph

Warm, timeless and humorous illustrated stories about a boy and his soft toy companion by the former Children's Laureate, with new illustrations by celebrated artist Sam Usher.When Jamie sets eyes on Angus he knows they will be the best of friends. On Christmas morning, they’re finally united and soon the toy Highland bull is Jamie’s constant companion. Jamie and Angus. Angus and Jamie.These heartwarming stories for young readers are filled with playful adventures and lessons in just how wonderful friends can be. They are brought to life with enchanting black and white illustrations from the celebrated author-illustrator Sam Usher.

A delightful collection of stories about Jamie and his toy highland bull from the former Children's Laureate, charmingly illustrated by celebrated artist Sam Usher.As best friends should, Jamie and Angus share everything. Join them as they have fun at their birthday party, think up some new ways to cry, and deal with a naughty pet gerbil! These playful stories are full of charming and amusing incidents from everyday life – like when Uncle Edward delivers Jamie's birthday present of a box full of party poppers (to Mum and Dad's delight!), or when Jamie gets over his frustrating day with a very messy session of bashing clay! Both parent and child will love reading and rereading this heart-warming collection of gentle, funny stories from a treasured author, which are brought to entertaining life by Sam Usher's wonderful illustrations.

Capture the magic of winters past with this stunning gift for all the family by bestselling author Emma Carroll, and award-winning illustrator, Sam Usher.'A magical adventure to melt the frostiest of hearts' Ben Miller. It’s Christmastime, and searching for magic, Maya finds herself transported back two hundred years to the banks of the frozen river Thames. A boy called Eddie shows Maya the bustle of the glittering frost fair, filled with music, sweet stalls and thrilling rides. Is this all a dream, or can Maya bring a piece of the beautiful frost fair home with her after all . . . ?A winter story of freedom and family, from the award-winning Emma Carroll, with stunning full colour illustrations by Sam Usher, A Night at the Frost Fair is a classic to treasure on the family bookshelf this Christmas and for years to come.

**The fabulously funny, deliciously anarchic and decidedly silly new picture book from award-winning creator Sam Usher**Life is full of LOTS of rules.For example:DO NOT pick your nose.DO NOT eat your sister’s birthday cake the day before her party. DO NOT dive into a paddling pool full of alligators.And definitely, and I mean definitely, DO NOT press that BIG RED BUTTON. But what happens if you break the rules? It might be FUN! It might be EXCITING! Let’s find out. **WARNING: This book contains A LOT of silliness**

A timeless tale of courage, resistance and friendship, The Umbrella Mouse is a heart-stopping adventure drawing on the true stories of animals caught in the conflict of WWII, winner of the 2019 Sainsbury's Book Prize for Fiction and selected for Waterstones Book of the Month. 1944, and London is under attack. Young mouse Pip Hanway's safe and quiet world is turned upside down when her home, umbrella shop James Smith & Sons, is destroyed by a bomb. Orphaned and alone, she must begin a perilous quest to find a new home.But the only way to get there is by joining Noah’s Ark, a secret gang of animals fighting with the resistance in France, operating beneath the feet of the human soldiers. Danger is everywhere and as the enemy closes in, Pip must risk everything to save her new friends.Beautifully illustrated by Sam Usher, Anna Fargher's debut novel takes you on an incredible journey through a war that reaches even the smallest of creatures.'An ambitious and wonderfully well-achieved first novel' Michael Morpurgo, author of War Horse.'A spellbinding tale of bravery and hope, where courage is found in the smallest of heroes' Gill Lewis, author of Sky Hawk.

A breathtaking story of bravery, friendship and fighting for what you believe in, Umbrella Mouse to the Rescue is the eagerly anticipated sequel to Anna Fargher's bestselling and award-winning The Umbrella Mouse, based on the true stories of the heroic animals caught in the conflict of WWII.Young mouse Pip Hanway is in France as she continues fighting for the French Resistance group Noah's Ark: a secret gang of animals operating beneath the feet of human soldiers, whose aim is to liberate France and secure the victory of the Allies. Determined to reach her ancestral home of the Umbrella Museum in Italy, Pip hopes she can find long-lost family and a home. But as Pip makes the perilous journey through occupied territory, she soon realizes that danger comes from all sides and that the enemy is all around, and she does everything she can to fight for her friends. Beautifully illustrated by Sam Usher, Pip will take you on an incredible journey through a war that reaches even the smallest of creatures.

“This delightful balance of story and rhyme makes poetry accessible and engaging for young readers.” Books for Keeps, Books of the Year 2024When Piglet picks up a stone and drops it into a puddle, something special happens … words splash out: Wet, Fresh, Earthy, Sploshing, Sunshiny, Puddle. Piglet is a poet!You’re a Poet is a story book with a difference – through five uniquely warm and cosy tales, readers can delight in the happy world of Piglet, his family and his friends and, at the same time, learn five brilliantly fun and easy ways to write a poem. Within each story, Sean Taylor shows children how to make a: "Puddle Poem", a "Comparing Poem", a "Make a Person Poem", an "If I Was Poem" and an "I Would Give You Poem". With plenty of poetry-writing tips and tricks after each story, Sean makes this form truly accessible and by the end of the book, even the very smallest of children will be able to confidently call themselves a poet.

Children's book legend Michael Morpurgo teams up with amazing illustration newcomer Sam Usher for an adorable story with counting activities for parents and children to share. This has the makings of another Morpurgo classic.The frogs always beat the toads at long jump but the toads don't mind – anything for a quiet life. But then the children – and Mutt the dog – come in search of some good jumpers, and the toads see an opportunity to get their own back. Soon the poor frogs have been gathered up and put in an ice-cream tub, and they're hopping mad!Children's book legend Michael Morpurgo teams up with amazing illustration newcomer Sam Usher for an adorable story with counting activities for parents and children to share. This has the makings of another Morpurgo classic.

With an authentic Indian backdrop, this is a feel-good story of young kids chasing big dreams that shimmers with all of Alexander McCall Smith’s trademark optimism and joy – an outlook on life that makes him one of the world’s best-loved storytellers.Hari is a dreamer with an unusual talent. He spends the few coins he earns washing cars on cinema trips to watch (and learn from) his beloved Bollywood films. Then one day Hari's gloriously fancy footwork is spotted by Mr Ram, a man on a mission to resolve conflicts near and far. Hari so entrances everyone with his magical dancing that soon he is travelling all over the world and his electric feet bring harmony to all who see him dance. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant or dyslexic readers aged 8+

Children’s literature legend Michael Morpurgo teams up with illustration star Sam Usher for a rollicking countryside adventure story, now in a Little Gems edition for more parents and children to share together.The frogs always beat the toads at long jump but the toads don't mind – anything for a quiet life. But then the children and Mutt the dog come in search of some good jumpers, and the toads see an opportunity to get their own back. Soon the poor frogs have been gathered up and put in an ice-cream tub, and they're hopping mad! Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant or dyslexic readers aged 5+

Roll up! Roll up! The Shortbread Family Circus is in town! Get ready to follow the clues in this first tale in The Big Top Mysteries series, from beloved author Alexander McCall Smith. Billy, Fern and Joe Shortbread are the stars of their family circus, but they also have another talent … they're experts at solving mysteries! When their circus moves into a new town they soon make friends with a young boy named Tom. But Tom can't enjoy the circus because his granny has disappeared and he's worried he'll never see her again. With the help of their astonishing circus skills can the Shortbread circus stars crack the clues and find Tom's granny?

Roll up! Roll up! It's the second exciting instalment in The Big-Top Mysteries series, packed with all the fun of the circus and an intriguing new mystery to be solved … Roll up! Roll up! A new season is about to begin at the Shortbread family's circus! The big-top is ready and everyone is excited to get started. But as the shows begin chief clown Mr Birdcage is in a bit of a pickle – none of his hilarious props seem to be working! When budding detectives Billy, Fern and Joe get on the case to investigate, they soon discover that the props have been tampered with! But who would want to sabotage Mr Birdcage and why?

Every child loves a snow day - no school and snowball fights galore! But Sam has to wait for his Grandad. Trying to hurry him up, Sam tells Grandad all the other kids have gone to the park... and all the local dogs... and all the zoo animals! Only when they finally arrive does Grandad see Sam was telling the truth - and both of them get stuck in having fun on their snow day!

Sam and Grandpa brave the rain and floods, and have the best adventure ever!Sam wants to go out but it's pouring with rain, so he and Grandpa decide to stay inside until the rain stops. Sam drinks hot chocolate and reads his books and dreams of adventures while Grandpa gets on with his important paperwork. Grandpa seems to have a VERY important letter to write. Then that very important letter has to be posted, despite the rain and floods. As they finally go outside, Sam and Grandpa have a magical adventure. Rain is the follow-up to the acclaimed Snow; and is the second title in a four-book series based on the weather.

It's the hottest day of the year, the perfect day for a boy and his grandad to set off on an adventure - and the perfect day to share a picnic with pirates!