Families across our operating areas are in for a treat this World Book Day (Thursday 5 March) as copies of Walter & Skye’s Stormy Night arrive in local libraries, bringing storm safety tips to storytime.
Created in partnership with award-winning children’s author-illustrator Emily MacKenzie, the story follows fearless puppies Walter and Skye as an ordinary day takes a dramatic turn when the power suddenly goes off at home. But this brother and sister duo don’t panic in the dark. Armed with a simple storm kit and smart advice from their family, they show young readers and their families exactly how to stay safe when wild weather strikes.
Hundreds of free copies have been rolling out across Central and Southern Scotland, Merseyside, Cheshire, North Shropshire and North Wales over the past month, perfectly timed for World Book Day celebrations. Families can also read the adventure on our website here.
Author Emily MacKenzie is best known for her bold, colourful illustrations created using coloured pencils, pens, gouache, inks and rubber stamps. Her books include Wanted! Ralfy, Rabbit Book Burglar, Stanley the Amazing Knitting Cat, Eric Makes a Splash! and Help! Ralfy Rabbit and the Great Library Rescue.
Emily MacKenzie said: "I loved the idea of turning a wild, windy night into something exciting rather than scary. Walter and Skye are the kind of friends you’d want by your side when the lights go out - curious, brave and ready to spring into action! As I painted each page, I thought about the families who might read it together, wrapped up in blankets, learning these simple tips without even realising they’re learning. My hope is that children will remember the characters and when a storm comes along, SP Energy Networks makes them feel ready and safe."
The book packs in SP Energy Networks’ top tips for staying safe, warm and prepared during storm season – from keeping a wind-up torch within reach and a power bank fully charged, to knowing the emergency helpline number and signing up for the free Priority Services Register if you need extra support.
Kendal Morris, Customer Service Director at SP Energy Networks, said: "We’re always looking for innovative ways to help our customers prepare for bad weather so partnering with the incredible Emily MacKenzie to create a children’s story felt like a great way to engage families. While power cuts are rare, it’s really important that parents and all our customers know what to do if the lights go out. With World Book Day just around the corner, it’s a great opportunity to pick up a free copy locally or read the story online and enjoy it together as a family.”