Publisher Description

A Financial Times Book of the Year 2022

An inspiring tale from Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman celebrating the world's most iconic train, Flying Scotsman, and its greatest fan, a young girl named Iris.

Iris knows everything there is to know about Flying Scotsman. Her dad is the famous train's driver, and every year her favourite birthday treat is a trip to see him at work. But each time Flying Scotsman pulls away, Iris wishes more than anything that she could be in the driver's cab, just like her dad. Then again, who's to stop her...

Published in association with the National Railway Museum, York, Flying Scotsman and the Best Birthday Ever takes readers on a journey through the golden age of steam travel, paying tribute to the women who kept the railways running during the Second World War. With family at its heart, the story is warmly written and joyously illustrated by national treasures Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman.

Author Biography

Michael Morpurgo is one of the UK's best-loved authors and storytellers. He has written more than 150 books, including the internationally celebrated War Horse, and was appointed Children's Laureate in 2003. Morpurgo was awarded an OBE in 2007 and a knighthood in 2018 for services to literature and charity. Michael Foreman is an internationally renowned, multi-award-winning children's book illustrator and author. He has twice won the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal for British children's book illustration.

Review

'Inspirational' - Daily Express
'A spunky heroine and a mighty train combine forces to challenge notions of gender roles and will encourage all readers to hold fast to their dreams. Charming' - School Library Journal
'Michael Morpurgo, aided by Michael Foreman's luminous watercolour work, sings an eloquent hymn to the golden age of steam' - Financial Times
'A glorious journey through the history of Britain's railways, wrapped up in a tale of family, adventure and aspiration' - @thelittleliterarysociety
'This story will take you on a magical journey' - @the_treasure_outdoors
'A beautiful story' - @_tarasteaching
'Heart-warming' - @raising_5

Promotional

An inspiring tale from Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman celebrating the world's most iconic train, Flying Scotsman, and its greatest fan, a young girl named Iris

Review Quote

""Morpurgo's narrative rolls along with grace as well as purpose...while Foreman's expressive watercolor-and-pencil illustrations beautifully portray the people, the stations, and the train, as well as the landscapes seen through its windows... This captivating and ultimately joyful book has appeal for train-lovers across generations.""

Promotional "Headline"

An inspiring tale from Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman celebrating the world's most iconic train, Flying Scotsman, and its greatest fan, a young girl named Iris

Details