- Michael Morpurgo, Illustrated by Christian Birmingham

Dear Olly

By Michael Morpurgo, Illustrated by Christian Birmingham
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An enchanting story told in three narratives – from a girl, a swallow and a young man – about love, family and the determination to follow your calling

‘Excellent’ The Times

As Olly waits to hear from her brother, Matt, she watches the swallows preparing to leave for winter. Hero the swallow is about to embark on his long journey to Africa, not knowing the terrible dangers he will face on the way.

And when Matt meets the children in the African orphanage – sick, injured and lonely – he knows he’s made the right decision, but he never could have dreamed of what might happen to him there …

Author: Michael Morpurgo
Format: Paperback
Ageband: 9 to 11
Release Date: 27 Feb 2025
Pages: 128
ISBN: 978-0-00-863879-5
Sir Michael Morpurgo OBE FRSL FKC DL is a writer, playwright, performer and librettist. The author of more than 150 children’s books, he has sold over 35 million copies worldwide and in almost 40 languages. A former teacher and vocal spokesperson for the benefits of reading for pleasure, he is currently the President of Book Trust. Between 2003–2005 he was Children’s Laureate and in 2018 he was knighted for services to literature and charity. Many of Michael’s books have been adapted for stage and screen, including the phenomenal National Theatre adaptation of War Horse, which has been seen by over 10 million people in over 100 cities around the world, broke the West End record for weekly ticket sales, and won 5 Tony Awards and 2 Olivier Awards. Michael is also the co-founder, with his wife Clare, of the charity Farms for City Children.

Praise for Michael Morpurgo: -

“Michael Morpurgo writes brilliantly about war and animals, conveying the big emotions without preaching” Guardian -

“Champagne quality over a wide range of subjects” Daily Telegraph -

“There are few children’s writers as compelling as Michael Morpurgo” Daily Express -

“Morpurgo, as always, is subtle and skillful, and incorporates social and moral issues into his writing without being self-righteous or detracting from the quality of the narrative” Elizabeth Reilly, British Council -

“The former children's laureate has the happy knack of speaking to both child and adult readers” Guardian -