Effy Dragon-Heart book 1: The Magic Castle

About this book

Meet Effy, her Heart Dragon Draggle and Star, the white wolf who watches over her dreams. When Effy’s body begins to feel different, Mummy and YaYa take her to the Magic Castle, her hospital, where the wizard doctors begin looking for answers.

Inspired by Effy’s experience of a brain tumour and seizures, this story gives children space to talk about their own experiences. Alongside the story are gentle drawing and conversation prompts, guidance for grown-ups and two colouring pages.

For ages 4 to 7, to share with a grown-up.

Each book can be shared on its own. Part of Mini Mindfulness.

Your handmade book

Lovingly handmade A5 book, 32 pages including the covers. £8 plus postage.

A look inside

Three sample pages from this book. You can also open the sample image in the gallery for a closer look.

The story behind the cards and books

Effy is my young daughter. When she was facing an operation for a brain tumour, I felt completely helpless. I couldn’t take away what she had to face, but I could create something just for her. These stories and cards were my gift to Effy, to help her understand what was happening and get through it together.

I will be forever grateful to the nurses and the whole team who cared for her. My hope is that the books and cards we now share can help other children and families facing similar journeys.

Every book and card deck is lovingly handmade, and all profit goes to The Grand Appeal, which supports Bristol Children’s Hospital, including the ward that looked after Effy. This is my way of saying thank you and giving something back.

Find out more about The Grand Appeal