As parents strive to entice children away from screens and reignite their passion for reading, a remarkable book series has taken the literary world by storm. The *You Choose* series, created by the talented duo of Pippa Goodhart and Nick Sharratt, has captured the hearts of young readers across the globe. With tales so beloved that families confess their copies are falling apart, this multimillion-selling series is proving to be an indispensable addition to every child’s bookshelf.
A Creative Collaboration
The *You Choose* series, which has recently welcomed its latest installment, *You Choose Party Time*, has an interesting backstory that nearly saw it never come to fruition. Goodhart, an established author with over 150 children’s titles to her name, initially conceived the idea while raising her own children. However, it faced rejection from nine publishers who couldn’t grasp its unique format. “They said it doesn’t tell a story,” Goodhart recalls with a playful glint in her eye. “Well, it doesn’t. That’s the whole strength of it!”
At its core, the series invites readers to engage their imagination by choosing options from vibrant illustrations, crafting a unique narrative each time they open a book. The experience is less about reading a linear story and more about exploring possibilities—a concept that has resonated deeply with children and parents alike since the first book debuted 23 years ago.
From Rejection to Recognition
The journey to success was not smooth sailing. Despite the initial setbacks, Goodhart’s unwavering belief in the concept eventually led to the interest of an editor at Random House, who recognised its potential and inquired about her ideal illustrator. Goodhart’s answer was unequivocal: Nick Sharratt, renowned for his colourful and energetic art style that has graced many children’s books.
Sharratt, who initially hesitated at the prospect of another demanding project after the first book, ultimately joined forces with Goodhart, resulting in a partnership that has produced six *You Choose* titles and counting. The duo collaborates closely, brainstorming ideas together and ensuring that each page reflects their shared vision of inclusivity and representation. The latest addition even incorporates sign language, inspired by Goodhart’s daughter, a speech therapist.
The Power of Choice
What makes the *You Choose* series particularly special is its ability to foster communication and creativity. Each page, filled with playful illustrations, encourages children to explore their thoughts and feelings, often inspiring conversations that help develop language skills. Goodhart and Sharratt’s aim has always been to create a versatile book that caters to a broad age range.
“I love seeing children engage with the book in different ways,” says Goodhart. “It’s a book to snuggle up with or for children to enjoy independently.” Sharratt adds that the series is frequently used by speech therapists and educators to facilitate conversations, making it a valuable resource in both homes and classrooms.
Families have shared heartwarming stories of the series’ impact, with children gravitating towards the *You Choose* books as a source of comfort and joy. As a parent myself, I have witnessed the transformative effect of these books on my child’s language development. The blend of colourful illustrations and interactive choices creates an environment where learning feels effortless and enjoyable.
A Legacy of Love
The popularity of *You Choose* has grown exponentially, with over 2.5 million copies sold and translations into 18 languages. The series has evolved to include a board book line for younger readers, with plans for more titles on the horizon. Yet, the essence remains unchanged; it’s about empowering children to make choices and explore their creativity.
Goodhart and Sharratt receive countless letters from families who have cherished their battered copies. “It’s always a delight to see a torn and tattered *You Choose* book,” says Sharratt. “It’s a testament to how loved a book can be when it’s read so often.” My own copy is already showing signs of wear, a testament to the countless adventures shared within its pages.
Why it Matters
In a world increasingly dominated by screens, the *You Choose* series stands out as a beacon of creativity, inviting children to engage with literature in a fun and interactive way. As it continues to inspire a love for reading among young audiences, it serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing imagination and communication. Goodhart and Sharratt’s work is not merely a series of books; it’s a movement that bridges generations, fostering connections between parents and children, and encouraging a lifelong love of reading.
