Our range of thoughtful children’s books inspired by Cornwall

Stage 1 – Hector Says… “Help!”

Hector Says… “Help!” is a gentle first coastal story for little explorers.

Hector the Hermit Crab needs a new shell, but he cannot manage on his own. Through simple language, a clear rhythm, and carefully observed coastal illustrations, children are introduced to the idea that asking for help is both positive and important.

Designed for the youngest readers, this sturdy board book supports early counting, shared reading, and calm conversation, while quietly encouraging care for the natural world and the creatures who live within it.

Inspired by real Cornish coastal environments, Hector Says… “Help!” forms part of a wider conservation-led project, helping children to notice, respect, and protect fragile shoreline habitats.

Stage 1 features:

• Sturdy, wipe-clean board pages
• Early counting and observation
• Gentle conservation themes
• Designed for little and big hands

Stage 2 – Hector Says… “Help me, please!”

Hector Says… “Help me, please!” invites young readers to look a little closer at the shoreline, where small details begin to reveal a richer world.

As Hector continues his search for a new shell, he discovers that help is not always immediate — it can be found through patience, awareness, and quiet observation. With growing confidence, he begins to understand his place within the ebb and flow of the shore.

Through gentle rhythm and more detailed coastal scenes, children are encouraged to notice what lies just beneath the surface, from swaying sea grasses to the subtle movement of creatures in the shallows.

Stage 3 – Hector Says… “Can you help me, please?”

Hector Says… “Can you help me, please?” is a gently structured story for emerging readers, offering a fuller narrative while remaining calm and accessible.

As Hector’s journey continues, children are encouraged to follow the story independently, building confidence through clear language and thoughtful pacing. Alongside the story, a dedicated “What you can do to help” section invites deeper understanding, showing how small, mindful actions can make a meaningful difference to the wider coastal environment.

This stage supports growing readers in making connections between story and world — recognising that caring for the smallest creatures helps protect the larger, more complex habitats they belong to.