A seaside holiday. A sleepy harbour full of secrets. One very curious dog.
Roo is off on a big holiday adventure to Barnacle Bay - a place of bobbing fishing boats, towering lighthouses, salty sea air... and excellent snacks. Expecting days filled with sandy paws, seaside strolls, and ice cream by the harbour, Roo soon discovers that this charming coastal town is hiding something far more mysterious beneath the surface.
When strange clues begin appearing around the harbour, whispers of an old secret drift through the narrow cobbled streets. Curious by nature and never one to ignore a mystery, Roo finds herself drawn into an adventure far bigger than her holiday plans. Alongside loyal old Labrador Dylan and a cast of unforgettable seaside characters, Roo follows a trail of hidden clues, long-forgotten stories, and puzzling discoveries that lead deep into the heart of Barnacle Bay's past.
As the mystery unfolds, Roo explores weathered harbour walls, clifftop meadows, hidden caves, stormy cliffs, vibrant shops, and the towering lighthouse watching over the bay. But with every new discovery comes another question. What secret has Barnacle Bay been keeping for all these years? And why do so many people seem determined to leave the past buried?
Beautifully illustrated throughout in a handpainted ink-and-watercolour style, Roo and the Secret of Barnacle Bay is a richly illustrated chapter book filled with atmosphere, gentle humour, cosy seaside charm, and memorable animal characters. Every page is designed to invite children to pause, explore, and immerse themselves in the world of Barnacle Bay - from glowing ice-cream shops and bustling harbours to moonlit cliffs and hidden treasures.
Perfect for readers aged 6-9, this heartwarming illustrated adventure is ideal for bedtime reading, shared family story time, and newly independent readers growing in confidence. Blending mystery, friendship, exploration, and gentle suspense, Roo and the Secret of Barnacle Bay celebrates curiosity, courage, kindness, and the joy of discovering hidden stories in unexpected places.
Fans of cosy animal adventures, illustrated chapter books, seaside mysteries, and beautifully illustrated children's fiction will find plenty to love in Roo's unforgettable journey to Barnacle Bay.
Stanley, Jane: - "Jane Stanley is a self-published author and illustrator of children's books, bringing stories to life with gentle rhymes, engaging characters, and beautiful watercolour illustrations.Inspired by her beloved cockapoo, Roo, she has created The World of Roo, a collection of books designed to support early learning through four sub-series: Roo's Garden - Seasonal visitors to Roo's Garden learning life lessons and making friends. Roo's First Rhymes - introducing readers to colours, numbers, and first words through playful rhymes and beautiful illustrations. Roo's Big Adventures - heart-warming tales filled with discovery, friendship, and fun. Roo's Rainbow Adventure Activity Books - interactive learning through puzzles, colouring and creative play. When she's not writing or illustrating, she enjoys exploring the outdoors with Roo, dressmaking, and finding inspiration in her surroundings and the changing seasons. She is based in the Midlands, UK, where the beauty of the countryside often finds its way into her stories."
