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Thimble: A New Fairytale
Within a sunny glade in the forest not so far from where you are, a faun was born.
Join Thimble on her journey through the trials of the forest. Along with her bird companions, they'll learn about life, love, and the importance of community. This mythic fairytale introduces children to a new, fantastical, and gently emotional world. Perfect for lovers of Winnie the Pooh and The Wild Robot!
Join Thimble on her journey through the trials of the forest. Along with her bird companions, they'll learn about life, love, and the importance of community. This mythic fairytale introduces children to a new, fantastical, and gently emotional world. Perfect for lovers of Winnie the Pooh and The Wild Robot!
- GenresFantasy
79 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 21, 2025
4 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 9, 2026
Hannah Birss’ sweet seems as if imported from the 19th century — and I mean that in the best possible way. Thimble, the new-born faun, makes her way through the forest giving and getting assistance with all the denizens. The graceful language, the pen-and-ink illustrations and the gentle attitude recall the best of the fairytales that have beguiled children for centuries.
Near the beginning of this lovely, but never twee, book we read:
Yes, indeed! I loved this short book, perfect for bedtime reads.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from the Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op in exchange for an honest review.
Near the beginning of this lovely, but never twee, book we read:
“Oh, I was just born this morning,” Thimble replied. “I assume I have a purpose, so I was just starting to look for mine.
“Aren’t we all,” Uno croaked….
Yes, indeed! I loved this short book, perfect for bedtime reads.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from the Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2025
This was 100% a cover buy. If you’re looking for a kids chapter book about searching for a purpose, check this one out!
January 6, 2026
Wow!! What an amazing book. This book deserves to be read, consumed and enjoyed by many. It is not often you get the chance to read a new fairy tale that brings so much to the table.
This is the story of how a newborn faun goes on a journey through the forest in order to find their purpose in life. Along the way Thimble the faun meets many creatures and learns about the importance of friendship and community.
The language used by the author creates vivid images as the descriptions used are fantastic. e.g. “Their bodies were as white as snow, but their heads, as well as the edges of their wings and tails, were black, as if they had been dipped in paint.” If the descriptions alone weren’t enough they are joined by some beautiful illustrations- some in colour and some black and white.
To add to this the messages of hope, friendship and community are throughout the tale and it deals so well with big issues such as death and grief (so delicately and carefully written - thank you), bullying and feelings of anger and fear being a few of them. It shows the importance of truly listening and for allowing time for yourself as well as others. I could go on but you need to read it for yourself!
This is the perfect read for confident young readers to read by themselves or to share at bedtime. It would also be perfect for use in a Key Stage 2 classroom (in the UK) either for pleasure, reading aloud or for becoming part of your English lessons.
Although I was lucky enough to receive a digital copy of this (THANK YOU SO MUCH TO NETGALLEY, THE PUBLISHER AND THE AMAZING AUTHOR), I have also ordered my own personal copy of this so I can share it with others for many years to come. If I could have rated it more than 5 stars I would have.
This is the story of how a newborn faun goes on a journey through the forest in order to find their purpose in life. Along the way Thimble the faun meets many creatures and learns about the importance of friendship and community.
The language used by the author creates vivid images as the descriptions used are fantastic. e.g. “Their bodies were as white as snow, but their heads, as well as the edges of their wings and tails, were black, as if they had been dipped in paint.” If the descriptions alone weren’t enough they are joined by some beautiful illustrations- some in colour and some black and white.
To add to this the messages of hope, friendship and community are throughout the tale and it deals so well with big issues such as death and grief (so delicately and carefully written - thank you), bullying and feelings of anger and fear being a few of them. It shows the importance of truly listening and for allowing time for yourself as well as others. I could go on but you need to read it for yourself!
This is the perfect read for confident young readers to read by themselves or to share at bedtime. It would also be perfect for use in a Key Stage 2 classroom (in the UK) either for pleasure, reading aloud or for becoming part of your English lessons.
Although I was lucky enough to receive a digital copy of this (THANK YOU SO MUCH TO NETGALLEY, THE PUBLISHER AND THE AMAZING AUTHOR), I have also ordered my own personal copy of this so I can share it with others for many years to come. If I could have rated it more than 5 stars I would have.
January 11, 2026
‘Thimble: A New Fairytale’ is an endearing children’s chapter book that is truly a modern classic in the making. Author Hannah Birss’ lyrical storytelling is perfectly complemented by charming illustrations by French artist Nalak-Bel, creating a truly enchanting reading experience.
The story follows a newborn faun on a quest to discover her purpose. As Thimble navigates the wonders and perils of the forest she inhabits, she encounters a cast of whimsical creatures and finds herself facing a multitude of unexpected hurdles. While the narrative recognises the inherent values of kindness, friendship, and quiet introspection, it also doesn't shy away from deeper themes like bullying, grief, and isolation, handling them with a gentle, age-appropriate touch.
As such, one of the book’s greatest strengths is its empowering message: it’s okay to be uncertain, it’s okay to stumble, and – as Birss beautifully conveys – “you are not defined by what you think you are supposed to be.”
Whether shared as a cozy bedtime story or explored by young readers independently, this is a story to be shared, whispered, and cherished by generations to come.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
- Rae of ‘Řaèkō Rĕadṣ’
The story follows a newborn faun on a quest to discover her purpose. As Thimble navigates the wonders and perils of the forest she inhabits, she encounters a cast of whimsical creatures and finds herself facing a multitude of unexpected hurdles. While the narrative recognises the inherent values of kindness, friendship, and quiet introspection, it also doesn't shy away from deeper themes like bullying, grief, and isolation, handling them with a gentle, age-appropriate touch.
As such, one of the book’s greatest strengths is its empowering message: it’s okay to be uncertain, it’s okay to stumble, and – as Birss beautifully conveys – “you are not defined by what you think you are supposed to be.”
Whether shared as a cozy bedtime story or explored by young readers independently, this is a story to be shared, whispered, and cherished by generations to come.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
- Rae of ‘Řaèkō Rĕadṣ’
January 5, 2026
Fauns aren’t generally the MCs in anthropomorphic stories, so this was refreshing. The story shares Thimble’s interactions with the various animals of the forest and the forest itself as the newly born faun goes on their journey.
Loved the small illustrations throughout and the nuance with which the plot was executed. Found some deep quotes and messages in this cozy children’s book and it’s probably my favourite read of 2026 so far.
The imagery was rich and the author’s descriptions capture the readers’ senses and allow them to really delve into the story.
This gave me A Psalm for the Wild-Built energy, but I see why it was compared to Wild Robot & Winnie the Pooh with its themes of helping those in need, friendships and finding one’s purpose.
Thanks NetGalley and Victory Editing for this free arc/copy of Thimble — A New Fairytale by Hannah Birss; all opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Loved the small illustrations throughout and the nuance with which the plot was executed. Found some deep quotes and messages in this cozy children’s book and it’s probably my favourite read of 2026 so far.
The imagery was rich and the author’s descriptions capture the readers’ senses and allow them to really delve into the story.
This gave me A Psalm for the Wild-Built energy, but I see why it was compared to Wild Robot & Winnie the Pooh with its themes of helping those in need, friendships and finding one’s purpose.
Thanks NetGalley and Victory Editing for this free arc/copy of Thimble — A New Fairytale by Hannah Birss; all opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 9, 2026
I would've been obsessed with 'Thimble' as a little girl, it's the perfect little fairytale adventure, I will be getting a copy for my library. I've got a few little patrons who will love this! Love the art, the characters, everything!
Thank you to NetGalley and the Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for an arc. All opinions are my own.
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★
Genre: Fantasy
This was such a sweet fairytale about spreading kindness and community. It's a children's book so it's very quick and straightforward, but I think it has some good messages for young kids. I loved how whimsical it was, and I definitely think I would have loved it as a little kid. In fact, some parts of it loosely reminded me of There's No Such Place as Far Away which I was obsessed with growing up. Honesty, I spent a lot of this book picturing it being read aloud by a school librarian, which I do think would be the absolute best way to read this book.
Also! The art was so charming!
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★
Genre: Fantasy
This was such a sweet fairytale about spreading kindness and community. It's a children's book so it's very quick and straightforward, but I think it has some good messages for young kids. I loved how whimsical it was, and I definitely think I would have loved it as a little kid. In fact, some parts of it loosely reminded me of There's No Such Place as Far Away which I was obsessed with growing up. Honesty, I spent a lot of this book picturing it being read aloud by a school librarian, which I do think would be the absolute best way to read this book.
Also! The art was so charming!
January 14, 2026
✨️ ARC review ✨️
Thimble is a cozy, whimsical fairytale about friendship, community, and finding a purpose.
I received an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley. I am leaving a review voluntarily and it is my honest opinion.
The story is so sweet and wholesome. I enjoyed the writing style a lot as well as the beautiful little illustrations speckled throughout. The book takes a gentle and whimsical approach to portraying Thimble's journey and paints a wonderful picture of community and mutual support throughout.
Without spoiling anything, I loved the ending a lot. Such a beautiful children's book!
Thimble is a cozy, whimsical fairytale about friendship, community, and finding a purpose.
I received an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley. I am leaving a review voluntarily and it is my honest opinion.
The story is so sweet and wholesome. I enjoyed the writing style a lot as well as the beautiful little illustrations speckled throughout. The book takes a gentle and whimsical approach to portraying Thimble's journey and paints a wonderful picture of community and mutual support throughout.
Without spoiling anything, I loved the ending a lot. Such a beautiful children's book!
January 14, 2026
I received an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this. Such a sweet story that I can already envision becoming a beloved fairy tale. Thimble is a lovely character and I fell in love with her immediately.
The message of the story is so important; your purpose doesn't have to be some grand gesture or journey, it can simply be to be kind and helpful. I think that's a lovely lesson for children and this story did it really well. It's all about overcoming differences and thinking outside the box to problem solve.
The different animals that Thimble meets on her journey all help her to learn this lesson in different ways and the ending is so sweet and had me getting emotional.
I loved this. Such a sweet story that I can already envision becoming a beloved fairy tale. Thimble is a lovely character and I fell in love with her immediately.
The message of the story is so important; your purpose doesn't have to be some grand gesture or journey, it can simply be to be kind and helpful. I think that's a lovely lesson for children and this story did it really well. It's all about overcoming differences and thinking outside the box to problem solve.
The different animals that Thimble meets on her journey all help her to learn this lesson in different ways and the ending is so sweet and had me getting emotional.
January 3, 2026
Thank you Netgalley, Victory Editing, and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
✨
This was a children’s fairytale about a faun and their adventures. Unfortunately, I do not think I was the target audience. I’m not a fan of anything cozy and since this was aimed more for kids it was too cozy. I liked the drawings on every other page (and the boar being named Pickle was funny to me) but that’s about it. It didn’t feel “new” either. It just felt sorta like a Grimm’s Fairytales knockoff and not in a good way. I found myself skimming through all of it, even though it was incredibly short.
If you like zero-stakes cozy fairytales, or want something to read to a younger audience, I would recommend this. Unfortunately, it was not for me.
✨
This was a children’s fairytale about a faun and their adventures. Unfortunately, I do not think I was the target audience. I’m not a fan of anything cozy and since this was aimed more for kids it was too cozy. I liked the drawings on every other page (and the boar being named Pickle was funny to me) but that’s about it. It didn’t feel “new” either. It just felt sorta like a Grimm’s Fairytales knockoff and not in a good way. I found myself skimming through all of it, even though it was incredibly short.
If you like zero-stakes cozy fairytales, or want something to read to a younger audience, I would recommend this. Unfortunately, it was not for me.
January 10, 2026
⭐ Fiction | Children’s | Fantasy
Thank you to Victory Editing via NetGalley Co-op for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Thimble: A New Fairytale follows a young faun named Thimble who, immediately after being born, sets out to discover her purpose. Along her journey, she encounters a variety of animals and offers her help wherever she can, learning the value of community.
The story highlights how working together with others toward a common goal can be meaningful, and that purpose isn’t something you simply find, it’s something you create. Through her adventures and the friendships she forms, Thimble comes to realize that connection and contribution are more fulfilling than aimless wandering.
This tale is suited for children, teaching lessons about empathy & collaboration all wrapped in a fairy-tale world.
The cover art is quite appealing, and each bird depicted has a distinct personality, serving as a guide throughout the story. I didn't expect that :)
Thank you to Victory Editing via NetGalley Co-op for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Thimble: A New Fairytale follows a young faun named Thimble who, immediately after being born, sets out to discover her purpose. Along her journey, she encounters a variety of animals and offers her help wherever she can, learning the value of community.
The story highlights how working together with others toward a common goal can be meaningful, and that purpose isn’t something you simply find, it’s something you create. Through her adventures and the friendships she forms, Thimble comes to realize that connection and contribution are more fulfilling than aimless wandering.
This tale is suited for children, teaching lessons about empathy & collaboration all wrapped in a fairy-tale world.
The cover art is quite appealing, and each bird depicted has a distinct personality, serving as a guide throughout the story. I didn't expect that :)
January 6, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book.
A fawn is born and finds its way through the world, forging friendships along the way. This story has a classic feel to it and is a breath of fresh air. Full of whimsy and charm, it is a worthy read. This is a book that could be enjoyed by children off all ages. It is lengthier than most picture books, but the chapters are a perfect length for enjoying this book in several sittings with young children.
A fawn is born and finds its way through the world, forging friendships along the way. This story has a classic feel to it and is a breath of fresh air. Full of whimsy and charm, it is a worthy read. This is a book that could be enjoyed by children off all ages. It is lengthier than most picture books, but the chapters are a perfect length for enjoying this book in several sittings with young children.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews