‘I have long been a passionate Moomin appreciator – it’s not just Tove Jansson’s wonderfully strange fairytale world that so appeals but also her beautiful line work and exquisite sense of design’ – Lauren Child

2010 marks the 65th Anniversary of the Moomins which have enchanted generations of children and adults alike.

And in July & September 2010, Puffin will publish a stunning new range of high quality picture, board, activity and novelty books, using Tove’s original characters and artwork, to commemorate the anniversary and introduce the characters to younger readers.

Rights for these new books have already been sold in 14 languages and secured a co-edition print run of circa 600,000 copies!

The first novel starring the Moomin family, written and illustrated by Tove Jansson, was published in 1945. Three years later, the Finn Family Moomintroll was published and met with immediate acclaim. It was quickly translated into English, leading to the international success of the Moomin books. The books have now been translated into over 40 languages and been adapted for television, film, opera and radio.

The original Moomin comic strip was created for and published in the UK newspaper The Evening News in 1954. It ran for 20 years and was syndicated to over 40 countries and around 120 newspapers, with over 20 million readers daily.

Now one of Finland’s greatest exports, there are approximately 200 Moomin licensees worldwide for thousands of different products, from designer mugs and classic toys, ceramics, bags, clothing, classic toys, stationery and even pasta!

Tove Jansson, the Finnish painter, artist and writer, was born in 1914 in Helsinki. A daughter of artist parents, sculptor Victor Jansson and designer Signe Hammarsten Jansson, she naturally took to a career in art (with studies at the academies of Helsinki, Stockholm and Paris). But her creative ambitions also included writing and as it turned out, Tove Jansson became as successful a writer as an artist.

The name "Moomin" comes from her uncle. When she was studying in Stockholm and living with her Swedish relations, her uncle tried to stop her pilfering food by telling her that a "Moomintroll" lived in the kitchen closet and breathed cold air down people's necks

Tove always claimed she never wanted to philosophise or educate anyone with her stories, she wished only to amuse herself. However, the universe she created around her characters is very complete and satisfying. It enables children and adults alike to delve into them on various different levels. These stories about the Moomintrolls have now become much loved not only for their beautiful illustration but also the gentle humane wisdom about life, deeply imbedded in them.

In 1966, Tove Jansson won the Hans Christian Andersen Award for her contributions to children's literature.

Moominvalley, this magical place somewhere in the realms of fantasy, has today enchanted over three generations of readers of numerous nationalities and with Puffin’s brand new series of pre-school books, based on the original characters and artwork and aimed at the family’s very youngest, we hope yet another generation will find a wonderful new way of entering into the magical world of the Moomins.

New books are being published to celebrate the Anniversary including:

• Moomin and the Birthday Button (RRP: HB £10.99 PB £6.99)

In this, the first of a new series of picture books, Moomintroll wakes up full of excitement. It's his birthday! But when it appears that his friends have forgotten all about his special day, Moomintroll is very upset. Even Moominmamma finds it hard to comfort him! Then there's a knock at the door . . . Who can it be, and what will happen next?

• Moomin’s Little Book of Words (RRP: £5.99)

Apple, cup, flower, shell… Discover Moomin's favourite first words as you share his busy day all the way to bedtime. This chunky little board book is just right for little hands and early learning – and there's plenty of Moomin magic along the way.

• Moomin’s Little Book of Numbers (RRP: £5.99)

One Moomin, two trees, three umbrellas, four clouds . . .
Count along with Moomintroll all the way from one to ten, and beyond. A companion volume to Moomin's Little Book of Words.

Hot Brands Verdict
Our Junior reviewers loved these books and they found them very sweet and charming. This delightful character is now enchanting a new generation of children.

KIDS WEEK IN THE WEST END BOOKING OPENS ON 13 JULY 2010
Free activities and tickets to top London shows from 13 - 27 August 2010
On Tuesday 13 July 2010, booking opens for the much-loved annual summer initiative, Kids Week in the West End, when children can go FREE to the best shows in town. Now in its 13th successful year, Kids Week offers an action packed fortnight of theatrical fun from 13 - 27 August 2010 with an exhilarating range of free workshops, activities and events in addition to free tickets.

The ticket deal is simple - one child (aged between 5 and 16) will be able to go absolutely free to any participating show when accompanied by a full paying adult, and a maximum of another two children can go half price.

Kids Week, established by the Society of London Theatre, gives all children the chance to participate in a variety of free activities and workshops designed to engage and inspire the next generation of theatre lovers. Children can peek backstage, learn to dance, sing with the cast and tread the boards, or enjoy exclusive post-show Q&As with the stars they have just seen on stage!

Ali Bastian, who is performing in Burn The Floor at the Shaftesbury Theatre from 21 July, said: “It’s important for children to have the opportunity to get into theatre from an early age because it’s just a fantastic experience. It’s really good for learning how to work with other people, improving social skills, it’s very collaborative and definitely a great opportunity to build confidence and of course just to have some fun!”

Emma De Souza, Development Manager at the Society of London Theatre and the brains behind Kids Week, who last year won the Visit London People’s Choice London Hero Award, in association with Magic FM, said: “Whatever your taste, Kids Week guarantees a brilliant experience for the whole family during the summer holidays and we are delighted that this year there is a stunning line-up of more than 30 hit shows. Kids Week encourages you to be adventurous and perhaps go and see something a little bit different to your usual choices. Tickets for popular shows do go fast, so make sure you book early and keep checking the website for all the latest availability.”

Booking opens for Kids Week on 13 July via the ticket hotline 0844 248 5151 and the website http://www.kidsweek.co.uk.

ELEMIS EVERYDAY BEAUTY ESSENTIALS
Supporting Mothers4Children Charity
Elemis, the proud winner of Best British Brand at CEW (UK) Awards continues its partnership with Mothers4Children by creating this Limited Edition ‘Everyday Beauty Essentials collection.

Elemis asked mothers, daughters, grandmothers, and mothers-to-be for their Elemis daily essentials for bath, body and face and this collection was born in time for summer holidays, packed intoa luxurious travel bag in metallic blue for just £46 / worth £108 /saving over 50%.

This limited edition collection with two full size products includes…

Body Treat – Exotic Frangipani Monoi Moisture Melt 100ml - A hydratingbody oil that’s a ‘holiday in a bottle’ for body, nails and hair

Bathing Treat – Skin Nourishing Milk Bath 125ml- Relax in this beautiful milk that nourishes and softens skin

Daily Skin Moisturiser – Maximum Moisture Day Cream 50ml - An all day long super moisturiser

Daily Cleansing – Skin Nourishing Shower Cream 100ml - Indulgent showering at its best

Daily Body Moisturising – Skin Nourishing Hand and Body Lotion 50ml - A luxurytreatment for the hands and body

Skin S.O.S – S.O.S Emergency Cream 15m - For hormonal, stressed and overtired skin and great for sun burn or insect bite relief

The mission of Mothers4Children is to see a world where all children are loved, valued and able to fulfil their potential. Your purchase of this product will help Elemis donate to their charity programme. Elemis will donate £1 per sale to Mothers4Children

Available throughout July- August 2010 via www.timetospa.co.uk Elemis spa/salons nationwide, selected retail departments or by calling Elemis Customer Care on 01278 727830 or call to find nearest stockists

STUNNING LOCATIONS, PERFECT PITCHES TOP CAMPING SPOTS WITH THE NATIONAL TRUST
Whatever you look for in a campsite, when it comes to the National Trust’s pitches there can be few comparable sites. From unspoilt beaches and craggy cliffs to spectacular mountain ranges and river banks teeming with wildlife, there really is something for everyone. So why not while away the long days of summer and get back to nature at the heart of some of the most spectacular landscapes in England, Northern Ireland and Wales?

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/freshair

Here’s our top pick of the pitches on offer:

Castle Ward, Co. Down
With space for up to 30 caravans and plenty of room for tents too, Castle Ward has over 800 acres just waiting to be explored. Dramatically set overlooking Strangford Lough, make time to marvel at this quirky mid-Georgian mansion, home of the Ward family since the 16th century. It’s an architectural curiosity - part classical, part gothic. Discover the shores of the Strangford Lough, where the water is so clear that you might spot a grey seal. Or, take in stunning viewpoints on a walk through the winding woodland and parkland. There’s even the chance to meet the horses, hens and pigs of Castle Ward in the farmyard.
For more information please call 028 4488 1204

Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
Situated in the heart of Robin Hood country, Clumber Park is the northern gateway to Sherwood Forest. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, campers at Clumber will be spoilt for choice. Walkers will enjoy the 4 mile route around the serpentine lake; taking a moment to pause on the 18th century classical bridge - perfect for bird spotting. There are over 200 species living here, or really get close to the action with a spot of pond dipping on the banks. Cyclists can tackle the waymarked routes through the park and with bike hire on site you needn’t worry if you’ve forgotten to bring the bikes. Enjoy sleeping in the great outdoors without the hassle of putting up a tent by staying in one of our Pods. Our new pods provide comfy, spacious and secure accommodation for up to 5 people. Each pod has a decked area and is comes complete with electric lights, a heater and electric socket. Or for a unique camping experience stay in our traditional 22ft Mongolian Yurt, which has room for up to 8 people and comes complete with double bed and some furniture.
Pods are £40 per night Sun – Thurs and £45 per pod Fri, Sat and Bank Holiday Mondays.
Yurt, £100 per night
Please call for more information 01909 544917
Please note that camping is not permitted on the Pod site.

Downhouse Farm, Dorset
Set on the Trust’s Golden Cap Estate, within 200yds of the beach, Downhouse Farm is part of England’s first natural World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coastline. Stretching from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-studlandbeachandnaturereserve.htm in Dorset, this coastline traces almost 185 million years of the earth's history. Discover rocks from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous Periods - rich with fossils - offering everyone the chance to walk back in time and, if you are lucky, pocket a piece of it! Nearby attractions also include Brownsea Island and Corfe Castle. Dramatically located in Poole Harbour, Brownsea is home to some of the rarest wildlife in England with woodland, heathland, wetland and shoreline. While at Corfe Castle there’s the chance to explore over 1,000 years of turbulent history that includes Civil War, torture, and treachery!
For more information on Downhouse Farm please call 01308 421232
For more information on Brownsea Island please call 01202 707744
For more information on Corfe Castle please call 01929 481294

Dolaucothi Estate, Wales
Set in the attractive woodland of the Dolaucothi Estate in South Wales this twin-level site is within a 100yds of the River Cothi. Campers will enjoy getting back to nature with the abundance of wildflowers and birds, including the rare Red Kite. The River Cothi is also one of the best spots in the world for sewin (sea trout) fishing, so don’t forget to pack your rod! A visit to the nearby gold mines is another must-do. Guided tours reveal the complex of pits, channels, adits and tanks left by the Romans nearly 2, 000 years ago. While the story of the mine, which continued work up until 1938, is revealed in the main yard, where 1930s mining machinery and an exhibition, bring the history of gold and gold mining to life. And to round off your day there’s the opportunity to try your luck at gold panning.
For more information please 01558 650707

Etherley Farm, Surrey
This small campsite can be found at the foot of Leith Hill, the highest point in south-east England. Well worth the climb, the hill is crowned by an 18th-century Gothic tower, with panoramic views north to London and south to the English Channel. A short distance away, there’s a chance to experience the opulence and glamour of Edwardian upper classes and life in the roaring twenties. Home to the Society Hostess, the Hon. Mrs Ronald Greville, Polesden Lacey is complete with all the trappings of her celebrated house parties; read invitation cards which give a glimpse of her high-society life and see her treasured visitors’ books which read like a who’s who of the glamorous and wealthy. The extensive grounds include a croquet lawn that can still be played on today and stunning formal gardens.
The 5 caravan sites are for Camping & Caravan Club members only. Unlimited tents.
For more information please call 01306 621423
For more information on Polesden Lacey please call 01372 452048

Highertown Farm Campsite, Cornwall
Perfect for beach lovers the Highertown Farm campsite is a short walk from a secluded beach and set within a stunning coastal landscape that is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. With newly installed solar water panels and composting toilets Highertown is one of the Trust’s greenest campsites. Literary aficionados will particularly enjoy the scenery and may wish to take the Gribbin Head walk across the coast- which is famed for its association with Daphne du Maurier and the setting for many of her books. Also within easy reach are the charming coastal villages and towns of Polperro, Fowey and Looe. Lanhydrock www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-lanhydrock.htm, is also close by and as one of the most complete 19th century country houses in England, it offers the definitive upstairs,downstairs experience.
For more information please call 01208 265211
For more information on Lanhydrock please call 01208 265950

Houghton Mill, Cambridgeshire
Nestling on the banks of the River Ouse overlooking the last working mill on this river, at the edge of the picturesque village of Houghton, Houghton Mill offers a delightful pitch. The perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts, the meadows around the mill are home to many plants and animals. The undergrowth provides cover for mice and voles, while dragonflies and butterflies will dart about in the tall grasses and near the riverside you might even be lucky enough to spot the unusual Banded Demoiselle. And no stay is complete without a trip to the famous Mill which even featured in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Set over five storeys, the Mill includes lots of hands-on exhibits for all the family and there’s even a chance to buy wheat which is still ground on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
For more details please call 01480 466716

Highertown Farm Campsite, Cornwall
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-camp-list.htm?region=South%20West&county=Cornwall&Submit=Search
Highertown Farm Campsite is a small, basic campsite with fine views of the South East Cornwall coast. A pleasant 3/4 mile walk from a secluded beach, the campsite and Lansallos are set next to a stunning coastal landscape that is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The campsite is ideal for couples, families and individuals who want a quiet rural campsite with close access to the South West Coast Path and the beautiful beaches and coves of Lantivet and Lantic Bays. It is also within striking distance of the coastal villages and towns of Polperro, Fowey and Looe and attractions of Lanhydrock www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-lanhydrock.htm , the Eden Project and Lost Gardens of Heligan.
For more information please call 01208 265211 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Nostell Priory Holiday Park, Yorkshire
This picturesque woodland holiday park is perfect for families, with pitches for 50 touring caravans, three motorhomes and ten tents. There’s also a small shop and play area on site. Ideal for discovering the Priory; why not enter a world of opulence and luxury this summer? Grand staterooms designed by Robert Adam, complete with Chippendale furniture and fine plasterwork, will whisk you back to Regency England. The grounds are just as spectacular, with over 300 acres of parkland to explore; you’ll be spoilt for choice! Whether you’re taking in a lakeside walk, trying your hand at croquet or experiencing the new children’s adventure playground one thing is for sure, it’ll be time well spent!
Advanced booking is advisable
For more information please call 01924 863938

Stourhead, Wiltshire
Within a short walk of the world-famous 18th-century landscape-garden this pitch is the perfect hideaway. Hidden away in a secluded valley the 18th century landscape covers over 100 acres and is set around a huge lake. Scattered with classical and gothic buildings, you won’t want to forget your camera. From discovering the circular temple dedicated to Apollo, to cooling off by the natural spring and grotto, it’s little wonder Stourhead has been attracting visitors for centuries. Likewise, the Palladian villa is just as entrancing; uncover one of the finest examples of a Regency library- complete with Chippendale furniture and weighty tomes; you can easily imagine what life was like for the wealthy Hoare family.
Please note this site is for Caravan Club members only. For more information please call 01747 840061
For more information on Stourhead please call 01747 841152

Upper Booth Campsite, Derbyshire
Upper Booth Campsite is situated on a working farm on the High Peak estate in the Peak District National Park. The site nestles in the western end of Edale alongside Crowden Brook as it tumbles down from the Kinder plateau.
Upper Booth Campsite and camping barn make an ideal base for walkers to explore the hills and moors of the High Peak.
For more information please call 01433 670250

Wasdale, Cumbria
Recently awarded the title of Britain’s Favourite View in the ITV show of the same name, Wasdale campsite lies under England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike. It is situated at the head of the beautiful Wastwater Lake, which is nearly three miles long and almost half a mile long - making Wasdale one of the few campsites in the world that offers such a remote and dramatic location for setting up camp. So whether you’re looking to pitch up your new tent or take your camper van out for its first summer trip, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed with Wasdale - 16 million visitors to the Lakes can’t be wrong! And if you’re looking to try something a bit different this year, why not try out one of our camping pods? Locally sourced materials provide an attractive, dry and spacious camping area.
For more details please call 019467 26220

Please Note
All information is supplied to us by the individual organizations, or agencies acting on their behalf. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that all information is accurate, it may be subject to change. Please check with individual organizations for the latest information about all events, products, promotions, or news items. Inclusion in a news item does not imply endorsement by Hot Brands Cool Places. Recipes have not been tested by Hot Brands Cool Places. Hot Brands Cool Places does not accept responsibility for the content of any external site.