Magpie and the Sparkling Words
by Lucy Rowland, illustrated by Craig Shuttlewood
Interest age: 4 to 7
Published by Templar Books, 2026
About this book
Magpie loves words, and she takes all the best ones for herself. Into her nest go 'blossoming' and 'playful' and 'rustling' and 'bustling' - and many more. But then the wood falls silent - until a storm destroys her nest. The stolen words hurtle, cascade and billow down to the ground, and Magpie realises that words are for everyone to share. But will the other animals forgive her?
The lyrical words of this story shimmer and sparkle, possibly inspiring conversations with the child reader about the many wonderful words we have in the English language. The main text is in rhyme, pulling the reader through the story, and the extra words that Magpie purloins are in bold, and form a glossary at the end. There is also a page at the back for you to add your favourite words to share with others. Written by a children's speech and language therapist, this is intended to spark interest in words and language, all through a gentle story about sharing. The illustrations of the cute woodland creatures have plenty of expression, making this a charming book all round.
About the author
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Ten Little Ducklings
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by Lucy Rowland, illustrated by Paula Metcalf
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Catch That Egg
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