Introduction
Every so often, a children’s book comes along with a story behind it that is almost as powerful as the story inside it. The Bestest Story in the World… Ever! is one of those books.
It is inspired by the real life story of Noah Shaw, an 11 year old from Letchworth in Hertfordshire. Noah hardly spoke at school, but during lockdown he began listening to storyteller Chip Colquhoun’s bedtime stories, read aloud by his mum to his older sister. Within weeks, his family noticed a dramatic transformation. Noah began telling stories aloud in class, performing character voices and writing his own stories during break times.
The book is illustrated by 15 year old Bethany D’Arcy, a student at Hope Tree School in Cambridge, which specialises in providing education to autistic girls. Bethany also found her confidence through Chip’s stories.
What makes this book stand out is its authenticity. It celebrates the power of storytelling, imagination and finding your voice, and it was shaped by young people who experienced that transformation themselves.
We read the book with a nine year old and an eleven year old over two weeks to see how it landed with its target audience.
Quick Verdict
Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5
Best for: Readers aged 9 to 12, reluctant readers and children who love storytelling
Short summary: The Bestest Story in the World… Ever! is a warm, inspiring and genuinely heartfelt children’s book. The real life story behind it adds meaning, the illustrations are charming and the message about finding your voice is powerful. It is a little less action packed than some popular titles, but it is a book that stays with you.
Main pros
- Inspiring real life story behind the book
- Celebrates storytelling and imagination
- Charming illustrations by a young artist
- Great for reluctant readers and quieter children
- Affordable at £8.99
Main cons
- Gentler pace than action led books
- May appeal more to thoughtful readers
- Limited availability compared with major publishers
Quick buying recommendation: If you want a meaningful, inspiring book for a child aged 9 to 12, this is a wonderful choice.
Where to buy: Check the latest price on Amazon
Product Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | The Bestest Story in the World… Ever! |
| Brand/Publisher | See book for publisher details |
| Product Type | Children’s book |
| Key Features | Inspired by a true story, illustrated by a 15 year old artist |
| Main Purpose | Reading for pleasure and inspiration |
| Price Range | RRP £8.99 |
| Materials | Paperback (special foiled cover edition available) |
| Best For | Readers aged 9 to 12 |
| Available Variants | Standard and special foiled cover editions |
Design & Build Quality
First impressions
The foiled cover edition looks fantastic. The shimmering cover catches the eye, and it feels like a special book from the moment you pick it up.
Illustrations
Bethany D’Arcy’s illustrations are charming and expressive. Knowing they were created by a 15 year old adds another layer of inspiration, especially for young readers who love drawing.
Print quality
The paper quality and print are good, with clear text and well reproduced artwork.
Layout
The layout is accessible, with a comfortable font size and illustrations that break up the text, which is helpful for reluctant readers.
Features & Performance
Story
The story centres on the transformative power of storytelling. It is warm, gentle and uplifting, with moments of humour and heart.
Themes
The book explores confidence, imagination, friendship and finding your voice. It handles these themes sensitively and positively.
Readability
The language is accessible for readers aged 9 to 12, while still being rich enough to engage confident readers.
Reading aloud
It works brilliantly as a read aloud book, especially given its origins in bedtime storytelling.
Real-World Experience
We read the book over two weeks with a nine year old who is a confident reader and an eleven year old who is more reluctant.
The nine year old enjoyed the humour and imagination, and loved learning that the book was inspired by a real boy.
The eleven year old was initially hesitant, but the real life story caught their interest. They related to the idea of feeling shy and finding confidence, and finished the book faster than expected.
Both children loved the illustrations, and the younger one was inspired to start drawing their own story.
The only frustration was pace. Compared to fast paced adventure books, the story is gentler, and the eleven year old said some parts felt slower.
The surprise was the conversations it started. Both children talked about times they felt shy or nervous, which made the book feel meaningful beyond the story.
Pros & Cons Table
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Inspiring true story | Gentler pace |
| Celebrates storytelling | Less action packed |
| Charming illustrations | Limited bookshop availability |
| Great for reluctant readers | Appeals more to thoughtful readers |
| Affordable at £8.99 | Shorter than some novels |
| Sparks meaningful conversations | Foiled edition may be limited |
Who Should Buy This?
This book is ideal for children aged 9 to 12, especially reluctant readers, quieter children and those who love storytelling. It is also great for parents, teachers and librarians looking for inspiring reads.
It may be less suited to children who only enjoy fast paced action books.
As a gift, it is a wonderful choice for Christmas, birthdays and stocking fillers.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
A much loved book about kindness and acceptance. It is longer and more emotional.
The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf
A heartwarming story about friendship and empathy.
Chip Colquhoun’s storytelling collections
For children inspired by the book, Chip’s story collections offer more imaginative tales.
Popular adventure series
Books like Percy Jackson offer more action but less emotional depth.
Is It Worth The Money?
At £8.99, it offers excellent value. It is affordable, meaningful and inspiring, making it a fantastic gift.
Final Verdict
The Bestest Story in the World… Ever! is a heartfelt, inspiring children’s book that celebrates the magic of storytelling. Its real life origins, charming illustrations and positive message make it stand out.
It is gentler than action packed titles, but for thoughtful readers, it is a gem.
Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5
Where to buy: Check the latest price on Amazon
FAQs
What age is The Bestest Story in the World… Ever! for?
It is aimed at readers aged around 9 to 12.
Is the book based on a true story?
Yes. It is inspired by the real life story of Noah Shaw from Letchworth.
Who illustrated the book?
It is illustrated by 15 year old Bethany D’Arcy.
Is it good for reluctant readers?
Yes. Its accessible style and inspiring story make it ideal.
How much does it cost?
The RRP is £8.99.
Does it make a good Christmas gift?
Absolutely. It is affordable, meaningful and perfect for young readers.
