Pernickety Boo

By: Sally Gardner

Narrated by: Simon Russell Beale

‘This captivating series of adventures is ideal for those who love whimsical humour’ Guardian, Best Children’s Books of the Year

Written by Carnegie and Costa Award-winning author Sally Gardner and beautifully illustrated throughout by Greenaway-shortlisted artist Chris Mould, Pernickety Boo is the unforgettable story of a very unusual umbrella.

'Hello,' said the umbrella.
'Gosh,' said the boy. The umbrella's handle was carved in the shape of a dog’s head, with a very long snout and a shiny nose and ears that flopped back. 'You can talk.'
'I suppose I can,' said the umbrella.
'Do you have a name?' asked the boy.
'No,' said the umbrella. 'Do I need a name?'
'Yes,' said the small boy. 'You need one for someone to let you in at the front door, and another name to be let out the back door.'

Brought to life by a careless sorcerer, Pernickety Boo is a well-educated umbrella with unexplored magical powers – and after he is left behind on the London Underground by his forgetful creator, Pernickety must find an owner: someone who will truly love him.

So when Pernickety meets young Sylvie Moonshine and is welcomed into her home, he thinks that all of his prayers have been answered. But there are plenty of other people who are also interested in the magical umbrella, and who threaten to separate Pernickety from his beloved Sylvie, unless he can find a way to stop them.

Perfect for fans of A Bear Called Paddington, The Velveteen Rabbit, and Winnie-the-Pooh, this instant classic is a book for the whole family to share.

©2024 Sally Gardner (P)2024 HarperCollins Publishers

Critic reviews

‘This captivating series of adventures is ideal for those who love whimsical humour’ – Guardian, Best Children’s Books of the Year

‘Pernickety Boo is an absolute delight. The best of children’s writing.’ – Natasha Farrant