Behind every great story is a visual world that helps readers connect, imagine, and learn—and in The Outdoor Adventures series part 1 & part 2,  that world is brought to life through the expressive work of illustrator Emma Pringle. With a lifelong passion for drawing and storytelling, she’s been sketching since she could hold a pencil, and now channels that love into illustrations that speak directly to young readers.

In this Q&A, she shares her journey into illustration, her hopes for how these books can empower older readers to reach fluency. 

1. How do you hope these books will empower struggling readers?

It can be hard to come to terms with reading difficulties as children grow older, especially when many available texts are aimed at younger readers. I hope these books help them feel comfortable with their learning and inspired to keep reading.

2. Why is it important for children to see themselves reflected in decodable texts?

It’s so important for children to see themselves in these texts—it helps them feel comfortable with who they are. I remember loving books with characters who reminded me of myself when I was younger. This kind of representation is especially important in decodable texts like these, as children encounter them early on and often carry those reflections of themselves throughout their lives.

Each story had a clear angle and message, and I was determined to pour everything I had into illustrating them. It was the most fun I’ve ever had on a project like this.

3. What was the collaboration like with the author, Moira Ruff?

Moira’s texts are full of life and beautiful stories, and when I first read them, I felt a little daunted by the task of translating such touching narratives into illustrations. I spent hours imagining the children and their adventures, working out how best to bring them to life on paper. Each story had a clear angle and message, and I was determined to pour everything I had into illustrating them. It was the most fun I’ve ever had on a project like this.

Decodable e-books for older readers

Explore the Outdoor Adventures series—a compelling collection of printable decodable e-books and activities for older readers. Designed to engage, support, and empower students who need structured literacy without sacrificing age-appropriate content.

Aligned with the progression of the Sounds-Write phonics programme, these texts offer targeted practice that reinforces key concepts and builds reading fluency.