The Big Bang! by Rose Ayling-Ellis: World Book Day 2026 | Children's Fiction on Physical Disabilities

The Big Bang! by Rose Ayling-Ellis is a World Book Day story centred on empathy, friendship and deaf awareness. It is an official World Book Day 2026 picture book for children aged 3–5.

Key details

• Official World Book Day 2026 title
• Written by Rose Ayling-Ellis MBE
• Includes an introduction to British Sign Language (BSL)
• Features a page of illustrated signs to learn
• Illustrated by Paddy Donnelly

Synopsis

During a noisy storm, Halo and Rocky are frightened while Casper stays calm. When lightning flashes, Casper suddenly runs off and the other kittens realise he is deaf.

As they search for their friend, Halo and Rocky learn to be brave and discover a new way to communicate. Created to support conversations about difference, communication and kindness, the story explores deafness in an age-appropriate way and encourages awareness and inclusivity.