Books that Make Us Smile
Joanne Appleby was born in the small village of Rothbury. She still has many lovely memories of her childhood, growing up in the beautiful surroundings of the Northumberland hills. In 2019 she lost both her parents within 16 days of each other. They had been together for 60 years. Joanne found writing was a tool for her to cope with the loss. She published two poetry books for adults and later started to produce illustrated books for children aged four plus. Joanne now lives in Altrincham and her books sell all over the country.
Joanne says: “I write books for children. I’d like my books to be light and joyful, so I write about birds. My heroes are a pair of swans, a blackbird with a beautiful voice, a robin and his human friends. I enjoy running through woods in the very early mornings and listening to the sounds of the birds, that’s probably where my inspiration comes from.
I feel we cannot underestimate the importance of children developing their reading skills at an early age. It is also very important for parents to encourage and enjoy reading with children to further interactions with their kids. There is nothing better than seeing children with a smile on their faces and many people have given this type of feedback after their children have read my books. I also aim to make my books educational with facts about the birds at the back of each book.”
The books are beautifully illustrated by Katarina Nice and will not only catch a child’s imagination, but will also help kids to identify birds whilst out amongst nature.
The books are produced to a very high standard using only sustainable materials, FSC certified paper, and local printing firms.
Joanne continues: “I have received a lot of positive feedback from many happy parents who have enjoyed reading with their children. Some parents, I think, may have bought a book for themselves too.”
Books written by Joanne Appleby can be found in many independent bookshops in and around Manchester, they are also sold by National Trust gift shops and Waterstones. For M&D readers who live in South Manchester and want to support local businesses, Giddy Goat Toys of Didsbury or Chorlton Bookshop are the places to go. For parents and children from Trafford it’s Off The Wheaten Track Deli in Altrincham. Happy reading!
