The Great Race Picture Book

Set deep in the heart of Tawny Owl Wood, The Great Boat Race follows the woodland friends as they prepare for the most exciting event of the year — the annual boat race! Excitement builds as each character brings their own ideas, strengths, and creativity to the challenge.

But when things don’t go quite to plan, the friends discover that winning isn’t always about coming first. Instead, it’s about working together, supporting one another, and finding the courage to keep going.

Beautifully illustrated and filled with nature, gentle humour, and heart, this uplifting picture book encourages children to:
 Celebrate teamwork
 Build resilience and problem-solving skills
 Understand the value of collaboration
 Enjoy the magic of friendship in every season

The latest three picture books from Tawny Owl Wood Children’s Books continue our mission of creating inclusive, emotionally rich stories where every child feels represented, heard, and valued. Alongside themes of kindness, diversity, emotional wellbeing, and neurodivergent inclusion, these newest titles also encourage children to connect with the natural world through discovery and learning.

In collaboration with inspiration from woodland wildlife, the books feature animals commonly found within Woodland Trust environments, thoughtfully woven throughout the illustrations and story pages for children to spot, recognise, and learn more about. This interactive element encourages curiosity, observation, and conversations about nature, conservation, and the importance of protecting woodland habitats.

By blending storytelling, representation, and wildlife education, these books create an engaging reading experience that supports emotional connection, inclusivity, and a deeper appreciation of the world around us.