Author: Foreman, Michael
Reading age: from c 3 years
Published on 15 January 2026 by Scholastic in the United Kingdom.
Hardback | 32 pages
259 x 291 x 14 | 456g
A story celebrating the special relationship between
one boy and his grandad, from national treasure Michael Foreman.
'Young readers will relish the slow build-up of adventure.
Michael Foreman's luminous watercolour illustrations bring
the story to life.' The Bookseller - Editor's Pick
'Michael Foreman weaves themes of community action
and environmental responsibility into a warm, feel-good picture
book.' School Reading List's best children's books to watch
out for in 2026
Jack's favourite place to be is with his grandad: walking in the
woods, looking after the village pond, listening as Grandpa shows
him all the magic of the countryside.
Together they watch Mr Fox prowling for mice, owls nesting in
the trees and badgers sleeping peacefully in their setts.
But one night, that peace is shattered with a screech of tyres
as a monstrous heap of rubbish is emptied into the village pond.
Can Jack and his grandad rally the village and clear the pond
before it's too late?
With a wonderful environmental message, this is the perfect
picture book to share with children and grandparents alike.
Michael Foreman OBE has established himself as one of the most
beloved picture book creators in the UK over his 60-year career.
This wonderful tale shows the beautiful connection between two
generations and how, working together, they can protect our natural
spaces and change the world for the better.
A tale of wonder and wisdom, perfect for fans of Charles Mackesy,
Raymond Briggs, and Chris Van Allsburg!
