Pupils from three Nottinghamshire schools enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime Storytime experience with children’s author and creator of JoJo & Gran Gran, Laura Henry-Allain MBE, during a special event hosted at our offices.
The exclusive event, held during National Storytelling Week, saw 14 local schoolchildren from Dalestorth Primary, Holgate Primary and Flying High Academy Ladybrook take part in an interactive reading of Maya and Marley and the Great Big Tidy Up. The visit formed part of celebrations ahead of World Book Day, and to mark 2026 being the National Year of Reading.
Get Free Access to the Story
During the event, pupils listened to Laura read from her book, asked questions about becoming an author, and used their imaginations to create ideas for a brand-new Maya and Marley adventure. Each child received a specially prepared goody bag of classroom resources, and their schools were presented with signed copies of the book.
To help more children celebrate reading during the National Year of Reading, you can now watch Laura Henry-Allain MBE’s storytime reading of Maya and Marley and the Great Big Tidy Up. TTS is making the exclusive Storytime recording available for free to schools across the UK.
Tanya Wilson, Marketing Director at TTS, said:
“We understand that reading builds the foundations for learning and we were thrilled to welcome children from local schools and celebrate with Laura Henry-Allain MBE. The enthusiasm, engagement and imagination shown on the day was truly inspiring.
“At TTS, our aim is to give every child, every day, a reason to love learning, and we are excited to share Laura’s exclusive Storytime recording with schools across the country.”
Laura Henry-Allain MBE added:
“I had a wonderful time at the Storytime at TTS event during National Storytelling Week. It was a joy to read to the children and see them develop their own ideas for a new Maya and Marley story.
“As 2026 marks the National Year of Reading, I am passionate about helping children read for pleasure. Understanding that print carries meaning – and that stories can inspire their own ideas – is so important. We must do all we can to encourage young people to pick up a book.”
Watch the Video Now!
The exclusive Storytime recording is now available to schools free of charge via the link below:
