Corner of a Courtyard

Corner of a Courtyard was formed in 2025 and supports independent creativity and learning. We are based in Cumbria on the edge of the beautiful Lake District and sustainability is at our core. We produce children’s books and learning resources within Cumbria and are passionate about supporting local businesses and Cumbrian creativity! Our background is in education, particularly Early Years education and so creating high quality learning and development opportunities are integral to everything we do. Through our resources and books we aim to inspire children and nurture their creativity and curiosity.

Emma Smallshaw

Emma was born and raised in Cumbria and now lives on the Northern edge of the Lake District, near Ullswater with her husband and baby girl. As an experienced Early Years Teacher and author, Emma is passionate about the power of books and developing a lifelong love of reading in children. Our Kingdom of Blue is the first in a series of books she has written, inspired by her love of nature and the beauty of the Lake District. Working with local illustrator Sophie Feinhols and printing with Reeds in Penrith ensured that Our Kingdom of Blue was created locally and sustainably, something Emma is very proud of.

Sophie Feinhols

Sophie is an illustrator who lives in a cosy corner of Cumbria, near the magical Lake District, with her husband, children, a pair of chattering guinea pigs, and some very curious cats. She loves turning imaginative worlds into illustrations, bringing quirky characters and faraway places to life through her detailed, colourful artwork. Sharing a love for the wild beauty of nature, Sophie loved collaborating with Emma to create Our Kingdom of Blue, and hopes it will spark imaginations and a deep love for our beautiful planet.

See more from Sophie on her website: Little Stringers