Taking the Long Way Home
Jake Hope author Brian Fitzgerald illustrator
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Scallywag Press
Published:10th Apr '25
Currently unavailable, our supplier has not provided us a restock date
This hardback is available in another edition too:
- Paperback£7.19was £7.99(9781836300601)

Normally Zarah and her brother are collected from school by their dad, who rushes them home taking every shortcut. But today, Uncle Jerome is collecting them, and he takes them on 'The long way home'. Reluctant to go further than necessary, the children complain at first, but are soon caught up in amazing adventures, as their uncle gets them to use their five senses to conjure up a world of fun and imagination. Birds become pterodactyls, ripples in the water become crocodiles ... they soon realise that the best adventures only happen on the long way home!
‘Highlighting the power of imagination, Taking the Long Way Home celebrates the awesome adventures that can be found in the small everyday moments. Jake Hope’s fun story is paired with energetic doodle-like illustrations that are both detailed and expressive. It’s fantastic to see two positive male role models in the dad and uncle, both spending time with the kids, and to depict a mixed-race family.’ Booktrust
‘A treat for all the senses, with swishing grass, crunchy leaves and even tasty ice creams featuring in Uncle Jerome’s exciting walk. This, alongside excellent use of repetition and page turns, makes the story a certain hit for storytime.’ Love Reading
‘Brian Fitzgerald’s illustrations lean into the surprising elements of this unexpected escapade, and the story provides lots of ideas to inspire parents in play, as much as children.’ Irish Times
‘A perfect demonstration of the power of the imagination and the glories of the natural world, this is a lovely book to share with little children. Brian Fitzgerald’s varied compositions and printmaking create a sense of a world waiting to be explored and this story should inspire lots of outdoor adventures.’ Book for Keeps
‘This delightful and engaging picturebook highlights the joy of play and the power of imagination, encouraging children to slow down, explore and find inspiration as they navigate the world around them.’ Children’s Books Ireland
‘Each spread conveys the sense of an ongoing journey full of unexpected discoveries. Fun to read aloud and given life and energy by Fitzgerald’s colourful illustrations, this is the perfect story to inspire a love of the great outdoors.’ Lancashire Evening Post
ISBN: 9781915252845
Dimensions: 245mm x 270mm x 9mm
Weight: unknown
32 pages