Mischief and joy! What more could a reader, caregiver, librarian, teacher, or kid lit collector want from their children’s books? Well, that’s exactly what you’ll find with Messy Press––a New Zealand-based children’s publishing studio, making their U.S. debut this month.
Do you want to know something really cool? Without even having had published books yet, Messy Press was awarded the 2026 Bologna Prize for Best Children’s Publishers of the Year in the Oceania region at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair. How’s that for an introduction into the children’s publishing world?
Co-founders and creative partners Adam Thompson and Erica Harrison, both Londoners now residing in New Zealand, bring a combined 40+ years of experience from across the design, illustration, advertising, and marketing space to Messy. Their inaugural list includes original, captivating nonfiction, fresh board books, and activity books that are “designed to delight little storytellers, guide intrepid wanderers, and educate curious ponderers.”
Toddlers will be entertained by the “First Works” series, charming bio board books that introduce the greatest English language wordsmiths and their timeless tales. Starting with The First Works of Shakespeare, Charles Dickens and Jane Austen aren’t far behind. Other board books include Where Do They Sleep? and The 123 Tree both sure to become new bedtime favorites, where little ones can discover the sleeping places of cute creatures and practice their counting skills.
If you like pizza and often ask big questions, you’re sure to get along with furry friends Mog and Morris! The Pizza Shape Book is a simple and funny first graphic novel about discovery and friendship…oh, and shapes. If you’ve ever wanted to time travel, now you can with “The Tiny Tours Travel Guides” series––the ultimate companion for young adventures as they explore new places and different times. Ancient Egypt is up first, followed by London next spring.
For all the kids (and grownups) who have ever said “I’m bored,” Messy has the book for you! Packed full of fun, illustrated activities like adding grains of rice to a rice bowl, tying a caterpillar’s many shoelaces, or loading containers on a freight ship, The Boring Drawing Book is designed to keep even the most fidgety minds focused.
If you’re looking for something a little extra to add to your reading experience, visit Messy’s activities page for free downloadable coloring and activity sheets. We cannot wait to get a little Messy, and we hope you will too!
