Latest picture book from Molly Arbuthnott launches in Edinburgh with free crafts and canapés
Enjoy a magical moment of joy, with a free Edinburgh book launch especially designed for children.
Midges are normally thought of as the bane of Scottish holidays, but Effie the midge is nothing but joy, who spends her life capturing it to share with boys and girls.
She’s the star of a brand new book by award-winning author Molly Arbuthnott who won the 2026 People’s Book Prize for best achievement, for her last story, Eamonn the Bat.
Captivating all readers with a blend of nature and mystical powers, her beautifully illustrated books are perfect for those who love animals, love nature, or a little bit of whimsy in a worrying world. Perfect for little children, but parents, grandparents and guardians alike will enjoy the escapism that Molly’s imagination brings.
She said: “Effie is a midge who loves to bring joy. She finds magic in the ordinary for you, me, every girl and every boy. She bites plants and flowers and bottles it up; heaven compressed in one cup.
“She teaches you to always be true and not worry too much about what other people think. If you believe in what you do, you will lead a life that is honest to you.”
And the books teach some valuable life lessons along the way, helping children to believe in the power of their own voice and convictions.
Molly added: “You can change opinions and make the world bright, keeping love and kindness always in sight.”
Reviews
“Molly Arbuthnott and Malgorzata Natanek have created an educational picture book with true heart, featuring a unique main character, Effie, a midge with more than a smidgeon of courage and creativity”
- Steven Crandell, author of A is for Amy
“Midges are very misunderstood and under-appreciated. Without them there would be no chocolate but not a lot of people know this. Hopefully this wonderful tale of midge courage will help future generations to better appreciate them and start to care for the future of the small things that support all life on earth.”
Paul Hetherington , Director of Fundraising and Communications, Bug life, buglife.org.uk
“Effie the Midge is a charming and imaginative story with a lovely message about courage, individuality, and kindness. Effie’s determination to follow her own path makes her an inspiring character for all readers. The uplifting ending makes it both heartwarming and memorable. Perfect for anyone who enjoys imaginative adventures with positive life lessons woven throughout.”
Ruaraidh C, Effie’s Dad
Molly’s done it again….Effie the Midge is a brilliant, beautifully illustrated little story of pluck and determination. Little beings, like Effie, can change the way others think and behave.
Robin Pilcher
Launch party
Effie The Midge’s launch party takes place on Saturday, July 11, at Harvey and Woodd Gallery, 4 Dundas Street, Edinburgh EH3 6HZ, from 4.30 to 8.30 with kids crafts, drinks and canapés.
The event is free, but it is highly recommended you reserve a slot here.
Molly, a much-loved author on the book circuit who also visits schools and inspires creative kids everywhere, believes “every scribble tells a story”.
Her books have wowed some pretty influential audiences, including Sir David Attenborough, Alexander McCall Smith, Judi Dench and Blue Peter.
She added: “Please come and celebrate bringing Effie the Midge into the world, around it she will gracefully twirl. Rainbows, cakes, bakes...joy in store with love at its core.
Find out more about the Molly Arbuthnott book range and community here.