Firefly - Robert Macfarlane | Luke Adam Hawker

Guardian Book of the Year

Shortlisted for the Children's Wainwright Prize for Picture Books 2026

From two of the UK's best-known book makers, Robert Macfarlane and Luke Adam Hawker, comes a stunning picture book to ignite wonder in readers everywhere.

'In the darkness of December,
Through the winter's deepest snowing,

When the world is steep in camber,
And all hope is downwards-flowing -

Then's the time to seek what's glowing...'

Written in lyrical verse, this story follows one sun-seeking child who discovers a meadow illuminated by fireflies: "fallen constellations" that dance like stars among the summer grasses, setting fears to flight. Enchanting to read aloud and exquisite to hold in the hand, each scene is rendered in spellbinding detail, showing the power of hope in a world steeped in darkness.

The first in an upcoming trilogy, Firefly is sure to appeal to all ages
-An uplifting and lyrical story of light, hope and wonder
-With words from beloved and bestselling author, Robert Macfarlane, creator of The Lost Words and The Lost Spells
-Stunning artwork created from original etchings by Luke Adam Hawker, whose debut book Together was a Sunday Times bestseller
-Spectacular gift book, cloth bound with a copper foiled cover
-This accessible story is perfect for children, and adults, ages 7 and above