Picture a British storyteller who turned playground princesses into daring heroines—meet Paula Harrison! This Buckinghamshire-based children’s author has enchanted young readers with her magical series like Rescue Princesses and Kitty, blending adventure, humor, and heart. From her roots as a primary school teacher, Harrison crafts stories that spark imagination and inspire courage.
The Making of Paula Harrison
Born in Bletchley, the historic home of wartime code-breakers, Paula Harrison grew up in Bedfordshire, England, daydreaming and spinning tales. As a child, she wrote stories about talking bookworms, hinting at her future as a beloved author. After earning an English degree from the University of Nottingham, she became a primary school teacher, where reading to her students fueled her passion for storytelling. Her classroom experiences taught her what makes kids laugh, gasp, and dream, laying the foundation for her writing career.
Paula Harrison’s Unforgettable Stories
Harrison’s bibliography, boasting over 50 books, is a treasure trove of adventure for young readers. Her breakout series, Rescue Princesses, follows spirited princesses who save animals and solve mysteries, selling over a million copies worldwide. Inspired by her daughters’ playful pretend games, the series reimagines royalty as active, brave heroines. Equally captivating is Kitty, where a girl transforms into a cat by night, embarking on superhero adventures with a tagline that sings: 'Girl by day. Cat by night. Ready for adventure.' For older readers, the Red Moon Rising trilogy weaves fantasy with suspense, showcasing Harrison’s versatility. Her writing style—lively, accessible, and sprinkled with humor—captures the joy of childhood while subtly teaching values like teamwork and empathy.
Harrison’s creative process blends planning and spontaneity. She starts with detailed mind maps and outlines but isn’t afraid to 'pants'—writing freely when inspiration strikes. This hybrid approach keeps her series consistent yet fresh, delighting fans across titles like Secret Rescuers, where magical animals and kind-hearted girls team up to protect nature. Her stories, often set in vibrant worlds from snowy kingdoms to bustling cities, reflect her love for sandy beaches, popcorn, and the quirks of everyday life.
Why Paula Harrison Matters
Paula Harrison’s impact lies in her ability to empower young readers, particularly girls, through characters who are bold, resourceful, and kind. Her books resonate globally, translated into multiple languages and cherished in classrooms and libraries. By drawing on her teaching background, she crafts stories that not only entertain but also inspire creativity and confidence. School visits, where she leads workshops on dragons and superheroes, further amplify her influence, igniting a love for reading and writing in countless children.
Her legacy is also personal. Fans like Ava and Layla, who write heartfelt letters, show how Harrison’s stories foster connection and imagination. As she continues to pen new adventures, like the upcoming Kitty and the Stolen Storybook, her work remains a beacon of joy in children’s literature.
- Birthplace: Bletchley, Buckinghamshire, England
- Key Works: Rescue Princesses, Kitty, Secret Rescuers, Red Moon Rising
- Fun Fact: She has a pet cat named Inky!
Snag Kitty and the Moonlight Rescue and dive into Paula Harrison’s whimsical world of adventure!