Pandora and the Story Forge

First published in 2024 by Rocket Bird Books, Pandora and the Story Forge, written by Gaynor Andrews and illustrated by Marie-Alice Harel, will be available in paperback this May.

Gaynor, who was a primary teacher for many years, teaching in schools across the UK, as well as Thailand and France, lives in the Scottish Highlands, loves the rhythm of language, has a passion for rhyme and over a dozen excellent poems here on the Dirigible Balloon.

Originally from Wales, the epic landscape of her childhood and her adventures teaching around the world can be seen in her incredibly accomplished writing.

In the book, Pandora is an explorer, a collector of words (even the ones that misbehave), a forger of stories and a friend to all story-starved children. Adorer of brave and beautiful words, Pandora roams across the world finding new and unusual ones. Returning home she weaves and forges them into the most amazing books. It is only then the magic happens: once read, the story unfurls in each child’s heart. Then they too become weavers and forgers of tales.

The book's illustrator, French artist Marie-Alice Harel, won the Folio Illustration Competition in 2019 and has illustrated many books for The Folio Society. Her ethereal watercolours capture the imagination.

“A dreamy book that feels like a modern classic. A real visual treat and a lovely story to share.” – The Scotsman -
"With its poetic narrative and stunning artwork, Pandora and the Story Forge is a celebration of imagination and creativity. Perfect for young readers and storytellers of all ages, it invites us to see words not just as tools but as magical threads that weave stories into the fabric of our lives.” – Books for Keeps -