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Elizabeth Lucraft
Childrens Book Author and Illustrator
A whirlwind of curiosity and endless wonder
Published Works
Ernie Book Series by Elizabeth Lucraft
Heartfelt Adventures with a Lovable Labradoodle
For ages 3–8
Join Ernie, the cheerful and curious labradoodle, as he navigates the twists and turns of life aboard a narrowboat with his loving family. Through change, challenge, celebration, and moonlit mystery, Ernie’s gentle adventures help young readers explore big emotions, everyday bravery, and the true meaning of home.
From bustling boat parades to starlit rescues, this charming picture book series blends warmth, humor, and life lessons in a world full of wagging tails and watery wonder.
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Book 1: Ernie – Where Is Home?
When Ernie’s family moves onto a narrowboat, everything changes—and Ernie misses his old home. But through new friendships and adventures on the water, he learns that home isn’t just a place—it’s love, laughter, and the memories we share.
Themes:Adapting to change, family bonds, new beginnings
Tone:Uplifting, heartwarming, reassuring
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Book 2: Ernie – A River of Courage
Ernie is used to the calm of the canals—but the family’s first journey on a big, fast-flowing river has him feeling unsure. With the help of his feathered friend Daisy, Ernie discovers that bravery doesn’t mean having no fear—it means moving forward anyway.
Themes:Courage, facing fears, friendship
Tone:Inspiring, adventurous, comforting
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Book 3: Ernie – Floating Festival Fun(Coming Summer 2025)
The Floating Market Festival is in full swing, and Ernie’s narrowboat is decorated and ready to shine. But when another boat breaks down, Ernie and his family lend a paw—and learn that helping others is the best kind of prize.
Themes:Teamwork, kindness, celebrating community
Tone:Joyful, generous, full of fun
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Book 4: Ernie – Under the Stars(Coming Summer 2025)
A mysterious “peep-peep” wakes Ernie from a peaceful night on the canal. One missing duckling. A trail of clues. And a moonlit adventure that proves bravery comes in all sizes.
Themes:Nighttime courage, problem-solving, gentle adventure
Tone:Dreamy, soothing, quietly brave
Navigate to our 'Books' tab at the top right of the page, or simply click here to read more.
Why Children Love the Ernie Series
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Lovable animal lead with heart and humor
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Relatable lessons about change, courage, and connection
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Unique narrowboat setting filled with charm and discovery
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Perfect for bedtime, classrooms, or cuddle-up reading
Ernie
Book Series, following the adventures of a water-wary labradoodle dog, living on a narrowboat.
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Welcome to the official website of Elizabeth Lucraft, author and illustrator of the 'Ernie' book series, where the beauty of art and the magic of storytelling come together to create unforgettable adventures for children to cherish and enjoy.
Little Explorers:
Visit our Little Explorers page for free downloadable colouring pages, printable activities, and fun crafts—created by Ernie to keep little hands busy and imaginations inspired!
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Navigate to our 'Little Explorers' tab at the top right of the page, or simply click here to explore.
Teacher/Parent Page:
Our Parent & Teacher Guide is the perfect companion to the Ernie book series, designed to help adults support children aged 3–8 as they explore big themes through Ernie’s gentle adventures. Each book in the series is paired with thoughtful discussion questions and fun, creative activities to encourage deeper conversations about emotions, friendship, courage, and change.
Whether you’re reading at home or in the classroom, this guide helps make story time meaningful, memorable, and full of teachable moments.
Navigate to our 'Teacher/Parent Page' tab at the top right of the page, or simply click here to explore.
Meet some of the Characters...
Ernie
Dinosaur
Daisy
Sammy
Sally
About Author :
I’ve had my share of “sensible” dogs—such as German Shepherds and Labradors. But then came Ernie, our little Labradoodle:
energetic, excitable and utterly extraordinary. A whirlwind of curiosity and endless wonder. He’s the heart of our adventures.
In 2022, my husband Paul and I took a leap of faith—we quit our jobs and set sail for a new adventure... on a narrowboat! We’d never even
been on one before, but we were ready to embrace the unknown.
Now, we live on our narrowboat, cruising the UK’s inland waterways with Ernie. It’s a quirky, unexpected lifestyle—especially for a dog who absolutely detests water! But Ernie has made the most of it, happily exploring his ever-changing "garden" as we journey from one canal to the next.
This new way of life has sparked the stories I now write and as someone with a deep love for art, illustrating these books is an absolute joy. Watching the story unfold through my illustrations is a true pleasure.
So buckle up—Ernie’s adventures are just getting started! Who knows where the next twist in the canal will take us?
Reviews :
Wondering what others think of our stories? Explore heartfelt reviews from parents and young readers who have enjoyed our published children’s books at home. From lovable characters to meaningful messages, find out why families keep coming back for more. Already read one? We’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a review and help others discover a new favorite story!
Navigate to our 'Reviews' tab at the top right of the page, or simply click here.
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