Stories with heart. Strength between the lines.
We believe every story has the power to leave a lasting impression. At Feather & Shell Press, we create books that spark curiosity, encourage kindness and celebrate the moments that shape who we become — written with heart, crafted with care, and made to be enjoyed together, whether at bedtime, in the classroom, curled up in a favourite reading spot, or simply in a quiet moment alone.
We're delighted you've found us, and we hope you'll discover a story that stays with you long after the last page.
Discover our books
Hello, I'm Samantha.
Feather & Shell Press grew from a lifelong love of stories and a belief that books have the power to shape hearts and minds. As a nursery manager, I've spent years watching children lose themselves in books, ask wonderful questions and find comfort in familiar characters.
Those everyday moments inspired me to create stories of my own — stories that encourage kindness, spark imagination and stay with readers long after the last page.
Horace the Frog is the first book published by Feather & Shell Press, and I hope it's the beginning of many more stories to come.
Thank you for being here and for becoming part of this journey.
Every story published by Feather & Shell Press is created with purpose, care and heart. We believe books have the power to spark curiosity, inspire meaningful conversations and leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages. We're proud to introduce our very first title, with many more stories already waiting to find their place on the shelf.
Our debut picture book introduces readers to Horace, a little frog with a face that others misunderstand. Through an unexpected friendship, Horace discovers that true kindness begins when we look beyond appearances. Beautifully written in rhyme and lovingly illustrated by hand, Horace the Frog is a story about empathy, acceptance and the importance of looking with your heart.
Every Feather & Shell Press title is thoughtfully written and carefully illustrated to inspire curiosity, encourage kindness and create stories that stay with readers long after the final page.
Order a personally signed copy directly from Feather & Shell Press. Whether it's a gift, a keepsake or a treasured bedtime story, every book is prepared with care.
Meet Samantha at markets, festivals, schools and community events for engaging story times, book signings and opportunities to discover the inspiration behind each story.
Come and say hello.
Saturday 21 November 9am-5pm
Manchester Art Gallery
I’m heading to Manchester for the Northern Indie Author Summit! A brilliant day celebrating independent authors, publishing and creativity, with talks, workshops and the chance to connect with fellow writers and industry professionals. I’ll be there representing Feather & Shell Press — and, of course, Horace is coming too!
Find out moreFrom our readers.
The loveliest part of sharing a story is discovering what it means to someone else. Here are a few kind words from readers who have already met Horace.
A brilliant book with such meaning; this book should be a must-have for every child. It is so heartfelt and wonderfully written. The illustrations are amazing — so wonderful to have an author who does her own illustrations too. Come on everyone, give Horace a place on your bookshelf.
I saw myself in Horace. People have spent my whole life assuming I was cross or unfriendly because of my facial expression. You've created a little being that resonates with both young and old alike.
It made me laugh that he's from France — of course that explains the beret. Can I be honest? I think I identify with Horace. Making friends is hard for me too. I loved it.
Incredible book with an amazing message Horace is an amazing story that not only has cute illustrations (my daughter particularly loved Doris eyelashes and lips) but has a heart warming life lesson that even adults could take something away from! Highly recommend let’s help teach our children and each other to be kind and show each other empathy and understanding! Incredible book with an incredible meaning!
It's not just for Children!! My dog Buster listened to his Mummy reading it out loud. Horace was my mum's Dad's name who she lost when she was 8 years old, this made her smile. Love, love, love this book and the sentiment it shares. Can't wait to see how far Horace can hop. Huge congratulations to Sam for this awe inspiring creation.
We'd love to hear from you. Whether you'd like to enquire about an author visit or story time, stock Horace the Frog, find out about upcoming events, or simply say hello — Feather & Shell Press is always happy to connect with readers, families, schools, nurseries, booksellers and fellow lovers of stories.
