Lilly the lighthouise

Lilly the Lighthouse: lockdown inspires heartfelt children’s story

Lilly the Lighthouse: Saved by the Storm is the first in a new series of children’s books by author Jason Goodchild. He wrote the story during the coronavirus lockdown, inspired by the intense emotions families felt at home during those uncertain times. The book introduces Lilly, a much-loved lighthouse who faces bullying and rejection before finding new purpose during a dramatic storm. Buy the book on Amazon

Stories that bring buildings to life

Goodchild’s new series The Dwellings explores buildings around the world that absorb and reflect the emotions of the people who live in them. Each story uses rhyme and rich illustrations to engage young readers while helping them process feelings like sadness, fear and joy. Lilly the Lighthouse teaches valuable lessons about kindness, resilience and friendship, making it ideal for children aged 4–8.

A message of friendship and hope in Lilly the Lighthouse

Lilly once stood proud in the seaside town of Lea. But after the council built newer lighthouses, they planned to tear Lilly down. The newer towers mocked her, leaving her feeling forgotten. But during a storm, Lilly’s light guides ships to safety, reminding everyone of her true worth. The story reflects real emotions children felt during lockdown, encouraging empathy and self-worth.

Reviews from parents and educators

Readers have praised the book’s emotional message and colourful style. Audrey Stewart, a nursery teacher, says, “I recommend this book to help young children understand the rewards of caring and kindness.” One parent shared, “The illustrations and rhymes captured my daughter’s imagination. We can’t wait for the next book.” The story blends charm and meaning, sparking important conversations at home or in school.

About the author

Jason Goodchild grew up in northwest London, one of seven siblings. He spent years tutoring children in maths, English and science before turning his talents to writing. Drawing on his experience as a teacher and parent, he crafts stories that inspire learning and empathy. He now lives in East London with his wife and two children. Visit www.blazingbooks.co.uk for updates on future titles and characters from The Dwellings.

By Fergus McCarthy

Fergus McCarthy is a seasoned publishing professional with over three decades of experience in the media industry. In 1993, he co-founded Parents News, a pioneering publication aimed at providing busy parents in Southwest London with essential information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly activities. Under his leadership, Parents News quickly expanded its reach from 60,000 to 192,000 monthly printed copies, establishing additional branches in Kent, South London, Northern Ireland, and Cornwall. In 1997, recognizing the potential of digital media, Fergus helped launch Parents News UK Online, which carried digital editions of the printed publication and offered a broader range of national information. The website's popularity soared, attracting up to 700 daily hits at its peak. Although Parents News transitioned to an online-only platform in 2017, Fergus continues to play a vital role as Publisher and Advertising Manager, focusing on providing value to businesses through effective advertorials.