ILLUSTRATED HARDBACK | GIFT EDITION | 108 PAGES
The North Pole is a thoughtful December tale for adults —to read quietly, share, and return to over time.
“It’s like an advent calendar in a book.” Lucy.
“It’s a beautiful fable. I loved it.” Sally.
“A Christmas Carol meets Alice in Wonderland.” Simon.
Limited time — discounted launch price available from publisher
Alternatively, you can order directly on Amazon
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Ask for ISBN 978-1-910207-44-4
The Story
The North Pole is not what you imagined
Beyond the edge of the world, a traveller journeys north through snow and ice to face three profound trials.
Guided only by memories and a few kind words, the traveller must confront the myths we tell ourselves. Touching on loss, kindness, and joy, this uplifting tale explores the possibility of beginning afresh as the year turns.
Discover the truth behind The North Pole, and the questions it raises for us all.
“Within the hollow stood an ice sculpture. The figure was no more than the height of a child yet perfectly proportioned: a slender shape with arms akimbo and an upturned face. It had an icy musical instrument strapped across its back. The lamplight caught on its surface and scattered hundreds of tiny sparkles of every colour across the alcove, as though the curved wall was a multicolored scarf.”
“Moving from tree to tree, he brushed their bark with his hand, as though he were reading a map. The soft silver light seemed to come from everywhere — as if the world were glowing. He brushed snow from his coat as he walked. At least I have my coat and scarf, he thought. This would have been much worse in my pyjamas.”
The Art
Each chapter opens with a beautifully illustrated number
The artwork ties directly to the chapter’s theme and characters.
And chapters finish with a mirror puzzle that gradually reveals a secret one piece at a time
Made to keep, or gift
For those who find December meaningful, as well as busy
For Readers
A companion, not an instruction manual
Written for adults who enjoy imaginative stories, emotional nuance, and thoughtful stories that let you make your own decisions.
For Shared Reading
Adult-first, with room for conversation
The story is suitable to be read aloud in groups or with thoughtful children aged 10 and above. Its questions invite imagination and discussion.
For the Gift Buyer
A book to return to each winter
A thoughtful gift for a partner, friend, or household, and a lasting December ritual for the shelf.
A few practical questions
Read it in the way that suits you.
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The twenty-four chapter structure makes a natural daily reading from 1 to 24 December, but you can begin earlier or later, and read at your own pace.
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It is written first for adults. It is also suitable to share aloud with thoughtful children aged 10 and above.
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Yes. Give your bookseller the title, author (A M Howcroft) and ISBN 978-1-910207-44-4
The North Pole
A Fable for Winter Nights
Available in hardback only, from 1 October 2026.