Description
A middle-grade book breaking all the rules, inviting readers to zig-zag across the page between the funny stories and the footnotes.
Traditionally, once a book is published, the author’s role is over.* The book belongs to the reader after that, and it’s up to you to decide what the stories are about.
Rob Walton is having none of it. He has insisted on popping up throughout this book with further thoughts and facts.** We, the publishers, recommend that you ignore his nonsense and focus exclusively on the stories.
And what stories they are! If you like horses, chocolate and time capsules, or have a passing interest in libraries, supply teachers and Lincolnshire, this is absolutely the book for you. Well done for finding it, and we hope you enjoy it very much. Just remember: don’t read the footnotes!
* As far as the text is concerned, anyway. We of course insist on them doing tv appearances, red carpets etc, to promote the book.
** All incredibly true and triple-checked with various sources.
Praise for Please Don’t Read the Footnotes Please
“The micro-stories in this collection, none of them more than a few pages long, are festooned with footnotes commenting on the action and the language used. Walton puts a comic spin on everyday events while he bombards the reader with jokes, observations and other fourth-wall-breaking antics. Irrepressibly silly fun.”
James Lovegrove, Financial Times, Best Summer Books 2025
‘This hilarious collection fizzes with surprise and excitement. Rob Walton has created his own unique genre, using cascading footnotes, inventive layouts, and mischievous interruptions from the author to make you shout with laughter, brush away a tear, and think deeply about the art of storytelling. Clever, funny, and delightful!’
Rachel Piercey, poet & editor of Tyger Tyger Magazine
‘A wonderfully chaotic and anarchic selection of short stories, interspersed with Rob’s random (and usually hilarious) musings in the footnotes. Ideal for Key Stage 2 pupils!’
Jon Biddle, Reading for Pleasure
‘Rob Walton’s book is a riotous collection of stories where footnotes argue, logic unravels & crisp packets cause dilemmas. Great for fans of Horrible Histories and Terry Pratchett.’
Mat Tobin
“From horses to time capsules, the tales are filled with oddball moments that will have young readers giggling and thinking outside the box […] with its playful, interactive style, this book encourages children to get creative, embrace humour, and have fun while reading.”
School Reading List, *Children’s Book of the Month ~ March*
“The stories are so varied that there is something for every reader to enjoy. They are short, quickly finished offering a chance to choose another one. Moreover, the stories are really accessible, encouraging reluctant readers to dip in and simply read …”
Simon Barrett, Armadillo Children’s Books Spring 2025
“The stories are so short that readers who can’t face a whole novel are set free just to enjoy this – and there is a great deal to enjoy […] this book provides a vital service by giving freedom to play with words, ideas and stories with no judgment and no consequences…”
Hilary Elder, Summertime is Reading Time Book Review Special
“Looking for a book of short stories to appeal to those who love quirky humour and to inspire creativity? Look no further […] I highly recommend this hard to define book, for reluctant readers especially who might not notice exactly how they are being challenged!”
Brenda Marshall, Reviews Editor of English 4-11
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Rob Walton is a writer, performer and teacher from Scunthorpe, now based in Whitley Bay, where he writes short fiction and poetry for children and adults. His debut poetry collection, This Poem Here, was published by Arachne Press in 2021. His poetry for children has been published online by Tyger Tyger and The Dirigible Balloon, and features in various print magazines and anthologies published by, among others, The Toy Press, The Emma Press, Parakeet, Bloomsbury and Macmillan.
Reena Makwana is a London-based illustrator who creates illustrations using drawings, embroidery and print. Her work is influenced by the city, characters, creatures, social past and present. She studied illustration at Camberwell College of Arts and has produced work for clients including Heart and Parcel, Vittles, Pit Magazine, Endeavour Agency, Lecker, Big Family Press, OOMK and At The Table. Reena has illustrated a number of titles for The Emma Press, including The Untameables by Clare Pollard, The Fox’s Wedding by Rebecca Hurst, and Pilgrim by Lisabelle Tay..
