This article was authored by Publisher Spotlight intern Vi Hendrix
Scallywag Press, a UK-based publisher who recently celebrated their six-year anniversary, has been recognized by numerous awards for the quality and artistry of their titles. They primarily focus on picture books, illustrated nonfiction, and early chapter books for young readers. In the past few years, their works have garnered the attention of numerous accolades like the Klaus Flugge Prize, the UKLA Award, and a nomination for the Kate Greenaway Medal. Let’s take a look at some of their recent and upcoming titles for readers across a variety of age groups.
Ivy Newt and the Storm Witch
The first in a highly illustrated chapter book series, IVY NEWT AND THE STORM WITCH is set in Miracula and features an unstoppable and lovable young witch, and her friend and familiar Tom. Ivy’s parents, the King and Queen of the Sand Witches, have prepared her a show-stopping birthday present––a magic act where they disappear. But hold on, they really have disappeared! Foul work is at play, and to rescue Ivy’s parents, she and Tom must travel all over Miracula on broomsticks and flying carpets, making friends along the way, and pulling together to defeat Clawdelia Thorn, evil Queen of Grotland. Written by Derek Keilty and illustrated by Magda Brol, this cute and quirky read is packed with adventure and humor.
Elki is Not My Dog
Author Elena Arevalo Melville and illustrator Tonka Uzu come together to capture the magic of making animal friends in childhood with ELKI IS NOT MY DOG. A group of children befriend Elki, a stray dog who has wandered to their flats. They play with the dog all day long but have to leave it at night since they are not allowed to keep it. One day, Elki comes back injured! The children must problem solve using kindness and empathy to figure out how and where the dog can live.
A Gallery of Cats
Stuffed to the brim with breathtaking artwork by author and illustrator Ruth Brown, A GALLERY OF CATS introduces readers to thirteen iconic painters through accordingly stylized kitties. On a visit to the art gallery with his grandma, Tom stumbles into a wing filled with paintings of cats. As he observes each one, the cats hop out of their frames and follow him around the exhibit. He learns about the artist who inspired the work, their style, and even the breed of each cat who joins him. Brown has created an intriguing introduction to art history that children and adults alike will love. (Publishing in the US in October 2025)
Taking the Long Way Home
In this picture book TAKING THE LONG WAY HOME, author Jake Hope shows children the power of imagination and the importance of taking things slow sometimes. One day, Zarah and her brother get picked up from school by Uncle Jerome instead of their dad, who usually takes all the shortcuts. Uncle Jerome shows them the long way home, which sparks some complaints at first. But as they make their way, he teaches them how to use their five senses to conjure a world of fun which illustrator Brian Fitzgerald portrays beautifully. (Publishing in the US in August 2025)
When we step into the light and show the world our greatness, the recognition and acknowledgement that follows is well-deserved. Follow along with Scallywag Press as they continue to let their light shine and soar to new heights.