Tadpole Summer

From the multi-award-winning author of No Ballet Shoes in Syria, comes a story of sibling love and loss, healing and hope.

"Catherine is a wonderful storyteller" - Phil Earle



Frog has always known her younger brother Tad is unwell. He has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (called SMA-PME for short) but that has never been an obstacle for their unbreakable bond. They share a room and do everything together, Frog happy to do whatever Tad needs.



But when Tad is taken into hospital, Frog finds it difficult to be in their bedroom alone and starts camping in the garden. She only plans to be there while Tad is away but she finds an unexpected calm amongst the sounds and smells of nature and a space of her own that she's never had before.



When Tad comes up, their bedroom has to change to accommodate all his hospital equipment and Frog isn't sure where she fits in their family anymore. She retreats back into the garden, using the excuse of a sponsored camp out for charity. But as Tad's condition worsens, Frog needs to face the truth that she may not have much longer with him.



Working to bring the small wonders of the natural world to Tad, can Frog find a way to make this last summer together unforgettable?



More beautiful stories by Catherine Bruton:



No Ballet Shoes in Syria, Nominated for the CILIP Carnegie Medal 2020

Bird Boy, Nero Book Awards Shortlist for Children's Fiction 2024

Following Frankenstein

Another Twist in the Tale