Banjo Robinson launchThe Book That Writes Backto ignite a love of letter writing in kids

Real letters from an imaginary cat turn reading and writing into a magical game

Banjo Robinson, the creators behind a magical penpal subscription for kids 5+, have today launchedThe Book That Writes Back, a charming origins adventure that encourages children to pick up a pen and write a letter. Banjo Robinson is a magical cat who travels around the globe sending real letters to his friends at home. The original subscription service has already sparked 40,000 letters worldwide and the release ofThe Book That Writes Backrewards new and existing fans alike with the story of how Banjo's travels began.

The Book That Writes Back takes children on a journey to the Robinson Street Shelter. There they meet a marvellous cast of creatures of all shapes and sizes who encourage Banjo, a cat who yearns for adventure, to follow his globetrotting dreams. Readers discover where Banjo came from and why he is an amazing friend to all the animals living at the shelter. At the end of the story, there is a tear-out letter, printed on thick, quality paper, that can be cleverly folded into its own envelope. Children are encouraged to begin their own adventure writing to Banjo. 

After over a year of uncertainty and lost learning, sending and receiving letters is a brilliant way to help kids fall in love with reading and writing. If Banjo's story inspires them to put pen to paper - and a Mumsnet study of 500 families confirms that 9 out of 10 kids choose to write back - children can go on to enjoy proper, paper letters through the subscription service. Banjo sends personalised letters, stickers and surprises twice a month, introducing curious minds to the wonders of the world, and encouraging them to start writing (or drawing) a reply. Perfect for children 5+, parents are invited to participate in the magical reality by injecting personalised touches to Banjo's letters.

Banjo Robinson is the brainchild of Kate Boyle, who was inspired by letters from her own childhood. When Kate was a child, her dad would leave letters and notes around the house for Kate to find; colourful envelopes filled with advice, love and encouragement.

CEO and founder Kate Boyle says "Banjo Robinson was born from wanting to create these special moments for other children. My hope is that Banjo's enthusiasm for travel, humour, kindness and compassion will be a little bit contagious and spark magic for kids after months of staying at home through lockdown"

Endorsed by teachers globally who back the cross-curriculum educational benefits, children learn without even realising! As well as reading, writing and handwriting, children discover different countries and new cultures. In addition, there are therapeutic rewards; letter writing helps children find their voice and is an outlet to express themselves.

Boyle says "Books encourage reading, but letters prompt a reply! There's nothing else on the market that stimulates kids to pick up a pen and write for fun without sticking them in front of a screen. Our mission is to turn reading and writing into a magical game."

The Book That Writes Back and gift subscription packages to Banjo Robinson are now available from Amazon:

The Book That Writes Back: The Story of Banjo Robinson, Global Explorer (Paperback) - £5.99

1 Month Subscription Gift Set (inc hardback book, soft toy & 1 month subscription) - £19.99

6 Month Subscription Gift Set (inc hardback book, soft toy & 6 month subscription) - £34.99

 For more information, to request a review copy or interview with Kate Boyle, please contact Nic Wilkinson on 07983635010 or at nic.wilkinson@gmail.com

 Introducing Banjo Robinson: the cat who writes back!

Banjo Robinson is on a letter-writing mission to deliver a personalised, fun and interactive way of learning for children aged 5-8. Just like Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy and the Easter Bunny, Banjo is an imaginary character evoking the magic of make-believe. Banjo sends letters, stickers and surprises all year round, introducing curious minds to the wonders of the world, and encouraging them to pick up a pencil and start writing (or drawing) a reply.

Banjo Robinson is a new vertical in children's publishing; picture books, disguised as letters. We are a subscription business which uses an envelope instead of a box, with a vast international market, and a unique value proposition; we turn writing practice into a game for children, aged 5+.