The Pinchers and the Diamond Heist: Q&A with Anders Sparring and Per Gustavsson

Anders Sparring writes children’s books and is a screenwriter for many popular television shows. He is also a stand-up comedian. Per Gustavsson is an illustrator and author living in Stockholm, Sweden. His bestselling books are translated into several languages. Who are The Pinchers books for? Anders They are for everyone who likes to have fun…. Read more »

Book Recommendations for Gifts by Age Range

monkey on the run (c) Leo Timmers

We often get asked for recommendations for a particular age of a child so this month’s book list is by the Gecko Press team recommending our top picks from our shelves to help with your gift buying this season.

Rain like a thunderstorm — the My Happy Life series wraps up

All's Happy that Ends Happy spot art (c) Eva Eriksson

The My Happy Life chapter book series is one of the most acclaimed and loved we’ve published at Gecko Press. The books have attached themselves firmly to many of us working with them over the years, so as booksellers, publishers and designers, we asked ourselves what we’ve enjoyed most about My Happy Life.

Book list for students with dyslexia

ADayWithDogs reading (c) Dorothee de Monfreid

In my learning support classroom, I have a growing list of ‘go-to’ picture books and early readers that have proven popular with my students with dyslexia over the years. 

Day in the life of Bei Lynn

Bei Lynn

Bei Lynn is an award-winning artist from Taiwan who has illustrated around 20 picture books for children. She took over the Gecko Press Instagram account on Thursday 13th August to share her day and also gave a sneak peek of her next book coming out next year!

Bibbit Jumps: Q&A with Bei Lynn

Bei Lynn

Bei Lynn is an award-winning artist from Taiwan who has illustrated around 20 picture books for children, some of which she has also written.

Bibbit Jumps is a charming illustrated chapter book for emerging readers about an enthusiastic frog who sometimes misses the mark.

Book list: Stories that teach kindness

Book list: Stories that teach kindness

I am particularly fond of books which feature kind characters, especially when those books are for children and young people. Here are some that are new and some that have been part of my life for a long time.

Chapter books for curious and engaged readers

Helper and Helper spot art 2 (c) Gavin Bishop copy

John McIntyre from The Children’s Bookshop speaks about the wonderful experience of reading your first chapter books. Helper and Helper makes his list.