The Heart of the Storm

"A dramatic tale of a fox and a wolf caught in a storm, vividly captured in Read's bright collaged illustrations. This picture book is an exciting story of enemies-to-friends, told with evocative language for 5+ readers."

* The Bookseller *

"There is a lot of cuteness in picture books but this is definitely not saccharine: the raging, swirling water and fierce lightning strikes, perfectly depicted by Read in swirling greys, browns and blues, add a real sense of danger to the story. Eventually, the storm breaks and calm is restored. Here, friendship is about survival."

* The Bookseller - Children's Previews *

"Teresa Heapy’s descriptions of the events really make readers feel that they’re caught up in the storm along with the two protagonists, while Kate Read’s collage style illustrations capture the drama of Teresa’s telling brilliantly in this enemies become friends story of courage and kindness."

* Red Reading Hub *

"This memorable, pacey picture book for 5+ year olds is ideal to prompt discussions about friendship, helping others and acts of kindness. A real highlight is Kate Read's outstanding illustrations, which use atmospheric swirling greys, blues and browns to evoke the threatening storm. Highly recommended."

* School Reading List *

"An adventure story showing how in the face of adversity two forest enemies become friends. A story beautifully illustrated, filled with generosity, courage and kindness."

* Jo Bowers *

"Rich in language and visually dynamic, this is a picturebook that trusts young readers to engage with complexity. It leaves room to talk about conflict, cooperation, and how difficult moments can forge unexpected bonds. Lyrical, thoughtful and emotionally resonant, it offers a gentle reminder that sometimes the fiercest storms reveal the strongest connections."

* Books for Keeps *

"The main protagonist is the storm, which through Heapy’s words and Read’s illustrations inserts itself with so much action it is almost palpable. Clever formatting of the text, and colour choices for the collage bring the storm to life as Ruby and Growl have to cling to each other for safety, and young readers will almost hold their breath to discover the outcome."

* The Bottom Shelf (Australi