The Word Keeper

What if you spoke and no one knew what you meant? Can you imagine the chaos and confusion of every word being misunderstood?

The Zumans of the planet Zoogan experienced exactly this dilemma. The Zumans lived a peaceful and joyful life under an excellent Word Keeper by the name of Zeeper. Everything was clear and understood because Zeeper taught young and old Zumans the need for word rules to keep the order. All of the word rules were kept carefully in a large book called a Zuckle.

However, Zeeper retires and Zeeber becomes the new Word Keeper, thanks to a fluke in the succession process. Of all Zumans, Zeeber is the laziest. In order to carry on with a carefree life, Zeeber decides to abolish all of the word rules.

The result? Zoogan descends into chaos while all Zumans make up their own words and word rules. Soon, Zeeber realises that without rules, a carefree life is impossible-and the mess must be cleaned up.

On the surface The Word Keeper is about why we have rules, and the consequences of a world without rules. Under the surface, this book is about how the author has struggled with dyslexia. There will be two versions of this book: a standard version and a version with a dyslexic-friendly font. James Burnell found this font easier for him to read. He hopes to support and encourage others with dyslexia.

The Word Keeper is written in delightful rhyme, and is sure to become a family favourite.