Call the Puffins by Cath Howe
Call the Puffins is a series from Cath Howe and Ella Okstad. We recently asked Cath Howe a few questions about her characters and this series. Check out her answers below!
Where did the inspiration for Muffin and Call the Puffins come from?
I grew up in Scotland. As a child, I spent many holidays by the sea on the Mull of Kintyre. I’m sure this love of wild spaces and islands came from these childhood holidays.
Muffin herself is new to the island in the first story. She is plucky and brave. Her story reminds me of children starting school and all the new experiences they have in the early days.
What is the most enjoyable part of creating a new series?
The most enjoyable part is developing the characters as individuals with their own quirks and qualities. And, of course, when I meet readers who love the stories too. Another aspect which has been fantastic has been meeting Ella Okstad and seeing her illustrations take shape. She puts so much expression into the puffins’ faces and movements- just wonderful!
Do you have a plan for this series in terms of books?
I’m not sure at the moment. I have just completed a fourth book set in the caves. The puffins are nervous to go inside, fearing ghosts but they have to do it. I have several more story ideas for puffins but also for other series for this age group- I really love to visit bookshops and schools and meet young readers!
Why do you think it’s so important for children to have highly illustrated chapter books?
Illustrations give young readers clues, enjoyment and, often humour as they follow the story. They bring characters to life. They are a relief when you are mastering reading and there to be enjoyed and discussed if the book is being read out loud.
What do you hope children will take from reading Call the Puffins?
I hope children enjoy the stories- I love humour in stories for this age group.
Call the Puffins follows a colony of rescue puffins on the island who form strong bonds. They are very much a community. In a similar way, I think schools and families are communities where we grow and develop our talents. The puffins are resilient- despite setbacks they do their best. I think this is an important message. In their puffin promise they sing these words:
I promise to be unflappable
To bravely cross the sea and sky
To rescue eggs and also birds
It may not work but I’ll always try.
This is pretty much my motto for life.
