The story behind Harry’s Bookcase
Harry’s Bookcase was born from love, loss, and the belief that books have the power to change lives.
When I lost my beautiful dad, Harry, the world as I knew it shifted. He was more than just my father - he was my guide, my biggest champion, and the person who taught me to see the world through curious and compassionate eyes. My dad always believed that charity and education, and in particular reading, was the key to success. He used to say that reading books was like watering a plant - nurturing our minds, helping us grow, and allowing us to bloom in ways we never imagined. He instilled in me the idea that a book is more than just pages and ink. That it is a doorway to opportunity, a friend in lonely moments, and a tool for empowerment.
My dad grew up with very little, in a home without electricity, where studying meant sitting under the glow of a streetlamp late into the night. But he never let his circumstances define him. With determination and an unshakable belief in the power of education, he worked tirelessly, earning a degree in economics and eventually building a successful business from the ground up. His journey was one of resilience, hard work, and an unbreakable spirit - values he carried with him to the end of his days and that I hope to carry through mine. His story reminds me every day that knowledge is a light that can guide us, no matter how dark the world may seem.
Since publishing Sunflower Sisters in 2021, I have had the privilege of visiting schools across the country, sharing my love of storytelling with children. But with each visit, my heart grew heavier. I met so many children who had never owned a book of their own - children who loved stories but had no bookcase to call their own, no pages to turn in quiet moments before bed. These “book deserts” were a reality I struggled to come to terms with.
That is when Harry’s Bookcase was born.
I realised that book ownership is powerful. It is not just about having something to read - it is about identity, belonging, and pride. A book of your own says, this story is mine. It invites you to return to its pages whenever you need comfort, adventure, or inspiration. I knew that if I could do anything in my dad’s honour, it would be to ensure that more children had access to books that could open up their worlds, just as he had always done for me.
With Harry’s Bookcase, for every book sold through our website, we donate a book to a child who needs it most. We work closely with incredible organisations, schools and individuals to identify children and communities where access to books is limited, ensuring that each donation reaches hands and hearts that will treasure them.
This initiative is more than just a book drive - it is a promise. A promise to my dad, to his legacy, and to every child who dreams of having a story of their own. If you would like to receive a book or know someone who would, please reach out. Because every child deserves to turn the first page of a story that just might change their life.
For Harry. A book for every child. A story for every heart.
The 1:1 donation scheme
At Harry’s Bookcase, we believe that every child deserves the joy of owning a book. That’s why, for every copy sold through our website, we donate a book to a child who needs it most. This 1:1 donation scheme ensures that when you buy a book, you’re not just sharing a story with a loved one - you’re also making a direct impact on another child’s life.
We carefully track the number of books sold and match each purchase with a donation. These books are distributed through incredible partner organisations that work with children who may not have access to their own books at home. From schools and community groups to charities supporting families in need, we ensure our books reach children who will cherish them.
If you know a child or organisation that would love to receive a book through Harry’s Bookcase, we’d love to hear from you! Simply email us at harrysbookcase@outlook.com, and we’ll do our best to get a story into the hands of a young reader who needs it. Together, we can share the magic of books - one story at a time.