‘Siri Nosbig and the Noisy Campers’ (mother’s name spelled backwards inspires new character)
FREE Storytelling Session – Tuesday 17th February at Holmfirth Library at 10.30am
Holmfirth-based writer, Sally Brown, and well-known local artist and illustrator, Susan Wood, have collaborated on a new children’s picture book aimed at 4-8 year olds.
There is something really special about a local creative collaboration, and this one is full of heart, imagination and a touch of mischief. Holmfirth writer Sally Brown has teamed up with much loved local illustrator Susan Wood to bring a brand new children’s picture book to life, and it is already capturing attention across the community.
At the centre of the story is a wonderfully named heroine, Siri Nosbig.
Sally has lived in Holmfirth for nearly 30 years and is a member of the Holmfirth Writers’ Group and Script Yorkshire. While she is well known for her poetry and script writing, this latest project brings to life a story she has carried with her for decades. Siri Nosbig and the Noisy Campers is aimed at children aged four to eight and tells the tale of a little girl who lives on a remote island with her Grandma Nettle. When a group of noisy campers disturb the peace, the island’s birds and animals hatch a clever plan to restore calm, with a little help from Siri’s secret weapon.
The character’s name is as charming as the story itself. Siri Nosbig is inspired by Sally’s mother, Iris Gibson, whose name spelled backwards, created the perfect adventurous heroine. The story itself has roots in family holidays on a small Scottish island, where Sally would invent tales about Siri and her animal friends for her own children. Now, years later, that imagination has been transformed into a beautifully illustrated book for a new generation.
Bringing those words to life on the page is local artist Susan Wood, whose distinctive and detailed style makes every illustration a delight to explore. Her quirky paintings are filled with tiny details that invite young readers to look a little closer, adding even more magic to Siri’s mischievous adventure. It is a collaboration that truly celebrates local talent, creativity and storytelling.
Families can also experience the story in person at a free storytelling session on Tuesday 17 February at 10.30am at Holmfirth Library. Sally will be joined by storyteller Mary Lister for a lively reading of the book, with animal mask making activities inspired by the story. It promises to be a fun and imaginative morning for little ones and their grown-ups.
Siri Nosbig and the Noisy Campers is available now for £8.99 at Read Bookshop and the Oxfam Bookshop in Holmfirth, supporting local independent retailers as well as a brilliant local author and illustrator.
It is always fantastic to see creative ideas nurtured right here in our communities, and this joyful new children’s book is a wonderful example of home grown talent making something truly magical.
