The Mudlarks: Peking to Paris

The start of an unforgettable adventure for young readers aged 8–12.

A beautifully illustrated debut that combines the charm of The Wind in the Willows with the excitement of Around the World in Eighty Days, The Mudlarks: Peking to Paris is an adventure the whole family can enjoy.

The Mudlarks, a family of water voles, and their friends, the Wetland Otters, set off on the adventure of a lifetime by entering the legendary Peking to Paris Motor Challenge. Travelling in a vintage Bentley and a Porsche 356 Speedster, they are joined by two friendly French hares in a wonderfully slow Citroën 2CV and a determined team of Italian pine martens driving a Ferrari Daytona.

Their incredible journey takes them across continents, where they encounter thieves in Kazakhstan, find themselves in trouble in Turkey, discover an ancient Roman mosaic in Greece and receive unexpected help from motorbike-riding camels acting as rally sweeps.

Along the way, new friendships are formed, unexpected passengers join the adventure, and an exciting race to the finish culminates in a spectacular celebration in Paris.

Beautifully illustrated throughout by Sally Hughes, this deluxe hardback is packed with humour, adventure, fascinating facts and stunning artwork, making it a perfect gift for young readers with a love of cars, travel and exploration.

Why you'll love this book

• Beautifully illustrated deluxe hardback with dust jacket
• Illustrated endpapers throughout
• A perfect blend of adventure, humour and classic motoring
• Inspired by the legendary Peking to Paris Motor Challenge
• Ideal for children aged 8–12 years
• A wonderful gift for young rally enthusiasts and future adventurers

About the Author

Jane McMorland Hunter has written more than 40 books covering gardening, nature, cookery and craft for publishers including Batsford, the National Trust and Teach Yourself. She has worked in bookshops for many years and is a Patron of the Wild Camel Protection Foundation.

The Mudlarks: Peking to Paris is the first story in the Mudlarks series. Jane lives in London, close to the River Thames, where the Mudlarks have made their home.

Book Details

• Author: Jane McMorland Hunter
• Illustrator: Sally Hughes
• Format: Hardback
• Pages: 288
• ISBN: 9781068372803
• Publication Date: 17 June 2025
• Recommended Age: 8–12 years (interest age 7+)