A tale of loyalty, loss, betrayal, and rebirth.It is 1911 and London’s docks thrum with underhand deals, none so great as the arrival of a valuable, rare and exotic animal, smuggled from the depths of the Congolese rainforest. The baby gorilla stands to make one man, the shady Goliath Deeds, very, very he and his right-hand man, juvenile pickpocket, Toff Squabble. Heaven help anyone who dares stand in their way, not least the brave and innocent twelve-year-old Nettie Beecroft, who finds herself embroiled in a dangerous rescue attempt where she encounters toshers, bone grubbers and gangsters. Whom can Nettie trust? And can she save the life of this very special creature?Praise for When the Sky ‘A magnificent story’ Philip Pullman‘Deeply felt, movingly written, a remarkable achievement’ Michael Morpurgo
Phil Earle Book order
This author delves into complex themes through compelling narratives and resonant characters. Their writing style is marked by a profound sense of depth and vulnerability, allowing readers to connect intimately with the individuals portrayed. Thematically, their work frequently explores the nuances of identity, the intricacies of relationships, and the universal search for meaning. This distinctive literary approach has earned them acclaim from both readers and critics.







- 2025
- 2024
Florrie navigates life between two distinct homes, each representing different aspects of her world. As she adapts to the contrasting environments, she faces challenges that test her resilience and understanding of family dynamics. The story explores themes of belonging, identity, and the complexities of love as Florrie learns to balance her experiences and emotions across both households. Through her journey, readers are invited to reflect on the meaning of home and the connections that shape who we are.
- 2024
From award-winning author Phil Earle comes the hilariously agonising account of one teenage boy’s disastrous attempts to win the heart of the cool new girl at school.
- 2023
Florrie has two of everything.Two lovely brothers . . .Two smashing parents . . .Two very cuddled pets.But two isn't always a magic number, as Florrie now has to live in TWO different houses:one with her mum . . . and one with her dad.An uplifting picture book that helps young readers discuss their feelings around divorce and embrace change.Brought to you by the award-winning, best-selling author, of When the Sky Falls, Phil Earle.
- 2023
When Peggy saves a stray dog from near-death, a beautiful friendship begins. Nothing can come between them - until war is declared. Peggy is evacuated to safety, but Beau is left behind in London, where he becomes the most unexpected of war heroes. Night after night, as bombs rain down and lives are destroyed, Beau searches the ruins of the city, rescuing countless survivors. But then tragedy strikes and Beau must set off on an incredible journey to find his beloved Peggy...
- 2022
September 1939. The world is on the brink of war. As his dad marches off to fight, Noah makes him a promise, to keep their beloved family dog safe. When the government advises people to have their pets put down in readiness for the chaos of war, hundreds of thousands of people do as they are told. But not Noah. He's not that sort of boy. With his two friends in tow, he goes on the run, to save his dog and as many animals as he can. No matter what
- 2022
From plane crashes to robberies, Stanley's day out with his nan isn't quite going as planned. He can't use his superpowers without blowing his cover, but luckily another mysterious superhero is on hand to save the day ... An unexpected family secret has hilarious consequences in this action-packed story from Phil Earle and illustrator Steve May.
- 2021
Edgar & Adolf
- 136 pages
- 5 hours of reading
Adi is on a mission set by his late grandfather, Adolf Jager. He must track down Edgar Kail, and return to him the simplest yet most prized of possessions. His quest soon becomes a journey of discovery as he learns of a friendship that survived decades, a great sporting rivalry, and a war that shook the world.
- 2021
"Inspired by a true story. It's 1940, and Joseph has been packed off to stay with Mrs F, a gruff woman with no great fondness for children. To Joseph's amazement, she owns the rundown city zoo where Joseph meets Adonis, a huge silverback gorilla. Adonis is ferociously strong and dangerous, but Joseph finds he has an affinity with the lonely beast. But when the bombs begin to fall, it is up to Joseph to guard Adonis's cage should it be damaged by a blast. Will Joseph be ready to pull the trigger if it comes to it?"--Publisher.
- 2021
Pickles, the Dog that Saved the World (Cup)
- 112 pages
- 4 hours of reading
Pickles the dog and his owner Elsie love football more than anything. And they’ve just heard the most amazing news. The World Cup is coming home to England and Elsie’s team have a chance to play in a half-time match at Wembley – with some help from Pickles, of course!But life off the pitch is tough, even when Dad works hard to provide what they need. It’s their team of three against the world and right now it feels like they’re losing. So when disaster strikes and Elsie’s dreams of playing at Wembley are shattered, it’s up to Pickles to save the world (cup) ...
