Picture a British storyteller who turned nursery rhymes into rollicking adventures and spun tales of brave animals in magical realms—meet Katrina Charman! This beloved children’s author has captivated young readers with her vibrant picture books and thrilling chapter series, blending humor, heart, and a touch of history. From her cozy village in England, Charman crafts stories that spark imaginations and foster a love for reading.
With series like The Last Firehawk and Survival Tails, plus playful picture books such as Car, Car, Truck, Jeep, Charman’s work is a treasure trove for kids and parents alike. Her journey from a Roald Dahl-inspired dreamer to a prolific writer is as enchanting as her stories.
The Making of Katrina Charman
Born in Southeast England, Katrina Charman’s love for storytelling ignited at age eleven, when a school assignment to write an epilogue for Roald Dahl’s Matilda left her starry-eyed. Though her work was sent to Dahl himself (sadly, no reply came), the experience fueled her passion for children’s literature. Years later, Charman’s talent shone through when she won the SCBWI British Isles’ Margaret Carey Scholarship in 2013 and the Undiscovered Voices Competition in 2014, launching her career with agent Gemma Cooper at The Bent Agency.
Now living in a Berkshire village with her husband and three daughters, Charman draws inspiration from her book-filled home and nearby forests, where she jogs and dreams up new tales. Her early love for Dahl’s whimsy and wonder still echoes in her playful, accessible storytelling.
Katrina Charman’s Unforgettable Stories
Charman’s bibliography sparkles with variety, spanning picture books, early readers, and middle-grade novels. Her picture book Car, Car, Truck, Jeep, illustrated by Nick Sharratt, reimagines the nursery rhyme “Baa, Baa, Black Sheep” as a high-energy parade of vehicles, perfect for toddler sing-alongs. Similarly, The Whales on the Bus transforms “Wheels on the Bus” into a nautical adventure, delighting young readers with its rhythmic charm.
For older kids, The Last Firehawk series, part of Scholastic’s Branches line, follows a brave owl named Tag in a magical world threatened by dark forces. With fast-paced plots and illustrations, it’s a gateway to fantasy for newly independent readers. Meanwhile, Survival Tails blends history and adventure, retelling events like the Titanic’s sinking or Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition through the eyes of animals. These tales weave educational nuggets into gripping narratives, teaching kids about courage and teamwork.
Charman’s style is marked by vivid characters, interactive storytelling, and themes of friendship and resilience. Whether she’s crafting a silly rhyme or a suspenseful quest, her stories are designed to be read aloud, shared, and cherished, often encouraging kids to find their own bravery.
Why Katrina Charman Matters
Katrina Charman’s work does more than entertain—it plants the seeds of a lifelong love for reading. Her picture books, with their catchy rhythms and vibrant illustrations, make storytime a joy, while her chapter books build confidence in young readers tackling bigger stories. By blending education with adventure, she introduces history and empathy in ways kids can grasp, from a dog’s view of the Titanic to a cat’s cozy café.
Charman’s impact lies in her ability to connect with children across ages and interests, fostering imagination and curiosity. Her recognition, from SCBWI awards to bestselling series, underscores her role as a trusted voice in children’s literature. In a world of distractions, her stories remind us of the magic found in a good book.
About Katrina Charman
- Born: Southeast England
- Key Works: Car, Car, Truck, Jeep, The Last Firehawk, Survival Tails, The Whales on the Bus
- Awards: SCBWI Margaret Carey Scholarship (2013), Undiscovered Voices Winner (2014)
- Fun Fact: Lives in a Berkshire village with her husband, three daughters, and fluffy cats
Ready to dive into a world of singing whales and heroic owls? Snag Car, Car, Truck, Jeep or The Ember Stone and discover Katrina Charman’s joyful storytelling today!