Kid’s Author & Illustrator Event: 'We Are Dragons' (For ages 3+)

Join this bestselling Children's author and illustrator duo, John Condon ('The Pirates are Coming' and more) and Patrick Corrigan ('Ingenious Edie' and more) at Happy Reading Children's Bookshop for a celebration of the first in a new hilarious Children's picture book series 'We Are Dragons', published by HarperCollins.

‘Packed with energy and wit, prepare to be catapulted into delightful, dragon-filled chaos’

Rhiannon Findlay, author of Ten Minutes To Bed series

...Unleash the laughter with We Are Dragons, the first in a gloriously funny new picture book series packed with fairytale fun, endearing characters and joyful artwork destined to be read time and time again.

Join four playful dragons on their hilarious journey through a fairytale kingdom, where fun turns into chaos at every turn.

From dazzling at the Prince’s Royal Ball to mixing fizzing potions in a witch’s cauldron, these dragons can’t help but cause mischief wherever they go. This rhyming tale is bursting with humour and vibrant illustrations that will delight young readers. Discover the mayhem and laughter that await.

Young fans of Ten Minutes To Bed, and Julia Donaldson, will love following these playful dragons through their adventure-filled day and spotting all details to be found in the rich artwork, with two particularly mischievous characters to be found on each page.

With just as much playful wit and charm, the second instalment, We Are Fairies, will be published in August 2026.

ABOUT JOHN CONDON
JOHN CONDON is a multi-award nominated local author, whose picture books have received critical acclaim in the UK and abroad. His titles include “The Wondrous Dinosaurium”, (Maverick Arts, 2018), “The Best Bear Tracker”, (Templar, 2022), and “The Pirates Are Coming!” (Nosy Crow, 2020). His writing won The Children’s Jury Award, and he has been translated into thirteen languages.

ABOUT PATRICK CORRIGAN
PATRICK CORRIGAN grew up in a cloudy town in Cheshire where he brightened up his life with various creative endeavours and activities (his favourite was cross stitch!). He studied ceramics at university before training as an art teacher. He then went on to become the art director of a busy design studio in London. In 2018 he made the decision to try his hand as a freelance illustrator and has never looked back.

Our cosy, creative session is perfect for young book-lovers and their grown-ups. Children will:

• Enjoy an interactive storytime with author, John Condon
• Take part in fun, age-appropriate creative activities inspired by the book with illustrator,Patrick Corrigan
• Have the chance to ask questions about stories, characters and illustration

Whether your child already loves drawing and storytelling, or is just beginning their reading journey, this gentle, welcoming event is designed to spark imagination and joy.

— and every child takes home their own copy of the book to keep!

Timings: 1 - 1.45pm
Recommended for: Ages 3+
Format: Reading followed by a creative activity
Duration: 45 minutes
Ticket: £5 per child (includes a FREE signed copy of the book RRP £7.99)

Important Information:

• Suitable for children aged 3+
• Event duration: approx. 45minutes (includes signing)
• Ticket price: £5 per child (includes a paperback copy of the book RRP £7.99)
• Booking is essential — spaces are limited!
• The bookshop is on the first floor, accessed via a flight of stairs.
• Children will sit for the reading, then move to a play/craft table for activities. All materials are provided and age-appropriate.
• Adults may stay for the event (limited seating available) or relax with a coffee and pastry downstairs in STAPLE.
• If you can’t attend, please let us know so we can offer your space to another family.
• Photos may be taken for social media (backs of heads only). Please let us know at the start of the session if you prefer your child not to be included.

📧 Questions? Contact: books@happyreading.uk