Tom Percival
Tom Percival was our Writer in Residence from February 2026 until August 2026. His residency explored how reading improves children’s wellbeing.
About Tom Percival
Tom is known for his uplifting stories and emotionally expressive illustrations, including his Big Bright Feelings series of picture books, such as Ruby’s Worry and Ravi’s Roar. He’s written over 35 books ranging from picture books to middle grade novels and illustrated literally more than he can remember.
He’s also a keen photographer and a musician, spending a lot of the time that he’s not working on books writing songs. He also enjoys climbing mountains, spending time with his family and walking with his dog, Luna.
What Tom Percival said:
My residency [explored] how reading improves children’s wellbeing, which is hugely important. After all, everything you ever see, think and feel about the world is run through the filter of your own mind. So, if your mind’s not in a good place, your view of the world won’t be either.
It’s vital that we all learn to be in tune with our emotions. To be aware of how we think and feel and crucially to be able to understand WHY we might feel that way. If we can learn to do all that, then on those occasions when we’re not feeling our best, it’s easier to navigate a path to a better place. And I can’t think of a better way to explore all these concepts than sharing books and stories with children.”
More from Tom Percival
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Tom Percival signs off as BookTrust Writer in Residence - and chooses his competition winners
24 August 2026
Tom Percival reflects on his highlights from the last six months as our Writer in Residence.
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Our Writer in Residence Tom Percival explains why there’s a reader for every book – and explores the importance of choice for children.
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Our Writer in Residence Tom Percival explores the different ways that books and stories can help to spread joy in our lives.
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Our Writer in Residence, Tom Percival, argues that stories are safe spaces to explore decision-making.
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Our Writer in Residence Tom Percival explores how books can open up different places and cultures for children.
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Our Writer in Residence, Tom Percival, shares his experience of the unique power of books to connect adult and child.
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Our Writer in Residence Tom Percival explores how picture books can support empathy – and recommends seven great stories to try.
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Our Writer in Residence Tom Percival explores how books can help children to explore emotions, find comfort, and learn about other experiences.
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Tom Percival is BookTrust's new Writer in Residence
9 March 2026
Tom Percival will be exploring reading and wellbeing over the next six months as he takes on the role of BookTrust’s Writer in Residence.