Inspiring the next generation of readers and writers with children’s author Harriet Muncaster
From bestselling books to animated adventures, Harriet Muncaster is sparking imaginations and helping children discover the joy of storytelling.
Her recent appearance at the BBC 500 Words event at CarFest was a perfect example of her hands-on approach to inspiring young readers and writers. During her Magic & Moonlights sessions, Harriet shared creative tips, writing prompts, and advice drawn from her own journey as a bestselling author, encouraging children to dream big and write boldly.
As the author of the hugely popular Isadora Moon series, Harriet has captivated millions of young readers around the world. Translated into 42 languages, the series blends everyday emotions with magical adventures, helping children build confidence in reading while exploring themes of identity, friendship, and self-expression.
Now, Harriet is inviting readers to explore a new world with The Diary of Wiska Wildflower. Aimed at slightly older readers, the series supports the transition to more advanced fiction through a playful diary format filled with full-colour illustrations, notes and letters. Wiska, a tiny wiskling with a big heart, navigates friendships and challenges at Inkcap’s Academy. The story encourages empathy, creativity, and resilience.
Harriet’s storytelling has also leapt from the page to the screen. Emerald, a new animated TV show based on the world of Isadora Moon, launched on Sky TV on 1 September. Created with Kelebek Media, the series follows a mermaid princess as she faces unexpected challenges and learns to embrace change. It offers children a fresh way to engage with Harriet’s themes through visual storytelling.
Through her engaging events, imaginative stories, and multimedia projects, Harriet continues to support and inspire young readers and writers at a time when the importance of literacy and storytelling has never been clearer. Recent research from the National Literacy Trust and OUP revealed that two in five (38.7%) children and young people aged 8 to 18 said they enjoyed writing in school either very much or quite a lot, and it is clear that there are barriers to having a positive experience of writing in the classroom.
Harriet’s work plays a vital role in reversing this trend by encouraging reading for pleasure and nurturing a lifelong love of learning through accessible, joyful storytelling. The Telegraph recently dubbed her the “fairy godmother of newly independent readers” in their review of the new series.
Harriet Muncaster
“I’ve always believed that stories have the power to unlock imagination and confidence in children. Whether they’re reading or writing, I want to help them feel that their ideas matter and that they can create something magical with words. At a time when fewer children are enjoying reading for pleasure, it feels more important than ever to create books and experiences that make reading feel magical and meaningful, and to show every child that their voice and ideas matter.”
With Isadora Moon celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2026 and Wiska Wildflower taking flight, Harriet Muncaster continues to inspire a new generation of storytellers. Her work reminds us that reading and writing are not just skills; they’re gateways to imagination, empathy, and lifelong learning.
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