Rockpool Children's Books Ltd.

15/06/2026

The Little Football Fan and his friends don't
support one particular team – they simply love football!
That means you can make the story your own by
colouring the players in your favourite team's colours.
Read the story, colour the pictures and enjoy the
fun football activities along the way.
Whether you support your local club or your
favourite team from anywhere in the world...
This is your chance to Colour Your Team!
Perfect for young football fans aged 4–8.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1906081476

07/05/2026

Incredibly proud that 7 of Rockpool’s picture books have been chosen by Storybook Dads and Storybook Mums.
The charity helps imprisoned parents maintain meaningful connections with their children by recording bedtime stories and creating educational gifts for them to share from prison.
The impact of this work is profound. Prisoners who maintain strong family ties are up to 6 times less likely to re-offend, showing just how important connection, communication and shared moments can be. Books have the power to comfort, educate and connect people, and we’re proud that our titles can support such an important mission.
Knowing our books can help families stay connected during incredibly difficult circumstances means a great deal to us.
Thank you to Dads and Mums for the incredible work you do every day.

31/03/2026

Delighted to present the Rupert Bear Annual 2027.

It’s a real privilege to play a part in continuing the legacy of this iconic character, first created by Mary Tourtel in 1920. Remarkably, Rupert Bear has remained in continuous publication for over a century.

I’ve had the honour of contributing as both writer and illustrator to the annual for the past 19 years, and it continues to be a source of creative inspiration and pride.

Publishing this August.

22/12/2025

15/07/2025

www.childrensbooksnorth.co.uk/blog/publishing-professional-interview-stuart-trotter

02/07/2025

The Little Football Fan wishes all participants of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 an outstanding tournament filled with passion, skill, and unforgettable moments. May the competition showcase the very best of women’s football, uniting fans and players alike in the spirit of sportsmanship, competitiveness, and fair play. Here's to inspiring performances, mutual respect on and off the pitch, and a celebration of the game that transcends borders. Best of luck to every team—let the tournament begin!

19/06/2025

Can you believe Rupert Bear has been in print since 1920? That’s 105 years — and counting! I’m thrilled to share that the Rupert Bear Annual 2026 will be out this August.

I've had the honour of writing and illustrating for the annual for 18 years now. It’s such a joy to help keep this beloved character’s legacy alive!

15/08/2024

Just found this again, after all these years.
Rupert Bear and Me - a broadcast by the great Mark Radcliffe on the BBC in 2011. Mark, a avid Rupert fan, interviewed me in Manchester at the BBC, and I was in illustrious company!
Such a privilege to meet Mark and such a privilege to be still
writing and illustrating for the Rupert Bear Annual all these years later!

'From his humble beginnings in a strip cartoon back in 1920, Rupert Bear has been captivating children - and adults - for the best part of a century. Rupert Bear is one of the longest-running children's comic characters in the world and has touched the lives of millions and drawn them into his enchanting world. Lifelong Rupert fan, Mark Radcliffe reflects on his life growing up with the little white bear and explores what makes Rupert and his adventures in Nutwood so appealing. He delves into his own Rupert annual collection and talks to fellow fans including the actor Terence Stamp, former-Python Terry Jones and comedy actor John Thomson about what they find so enticing about the world of the curious white bear. With contributions from current Rupert annual illustrator Stuart Trotter, biographer Caroline Bott and children's literature expert Julia Eccleshare, Mark takes a look at Rupert's origins, the artistry and creativity of long-time illustrator Alfred Bestall and the significance of Rupert's home - the wonderful world of Nutwood. With a yellow and black checked scarf tied firmly round his neck, Mark dives into the magical world of Nutwood and considers Rupert's place in popular culture, his rock 'n' roll credentials, his longevity and success.'

https://tinyurl.com/yt3zb3pw