Bedtime Story

Bedtime Story is a personal tale about death, life, and the enchantment of stories, written by the bestselling author of The Tall Man and The Arsonist. It explores how children's literature can teach about grief and resilience in real life, and is illustrated by Anna Walker. The book is both a memoir and a manual, and is praised for its direct and powerful beauty. It is a reminder of the solace that books give us, and of how the imaginary worlds we dive into as children remain with us for all our lives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2022
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

From the acclaimed author of The Tall Man and The Arsonist comes a deeply personal and captivating exploration of death, life, and the enduring power of storytelling. With stunning illustrations by Anna Walker, this captivating memoir weaves together a tapestry of grief, resilience, and the profound lessons found within the pages of children's literature.

When Chloe Hooper's partner is diagnosed with a rare and aggressive illness, she faces the daunting task of breaking the news to their two young sons. Seeking solace in books, she embarks on a quest to discover how children's literature can impart valuable lessons about grief and resilience in real life. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of authors, including the Brothers Grimm, Frances Hodgson Burnett, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Roald Dahl, Hooper delves into the rich tapestry of their stories, seeking the wisdom and solace they offer.

Bedtime Story is a remarkable blend of memoir and manual, offering a profound and moving exploration of the dark and light of storytelling. Through her meticulous research and heartfelt storytelling, Hooper reveals the profound impact that the right words can have on individuals grappling with loss. She demonstrates how storytelling can provide a sense of hope, comfort, and guidance, helping children and adults alike navigate the complexities of grief and find meaning in the face of adversity.

Anna Walker's stunning illustrations add an additional layer of beauty and depth to this already captivating book. Her intricate and evocative illustrations capture the essence of the stories and the emotions they evoke, enhancing the reader's experience and bringing the characters to life.

In a world filled with uncertainty, Bedtime Story offers a profound and uplifting exploration of the power of storytelling. It reminds us of the solace and guidance that books can provide, and how the imaginary worlds we immerse ourselves in as children continue to shape our lives throughout our adulthood. This is a story of grief, resilience, and the enduring magic of stories, offering a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who seek solace and meaning in the face of adversity.

Weight: 496g
Dimension: 133 x 226 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398510586