Tug is very busy every day in the harbour, pushing, pulling and prodding much bigger boats. Tug likes her job, but is feeling a bit low at the moment.

Ship has gone away on a trip, leaving Tug without her usual bravery and buoyancy on the waves as she works.

Although Ship promised to be home again soon, Tug’s thoughts are filled with how much she misses Ship and whether Ship misses her too.

When Tug’s mood is as low as can be in the water, she hears the BOOM of Ship’s horn. Ship is coming home! Tug’s hull lifts along with her spirits as she makes straight for Ship out in the harbour.

After a happy greeting they talk about having to be apart sometimes and Ship assures Tug that she is always in her thoughts, even though not together.

The next time Ship has to go away, Tug knows…

They were anchored in each other’s hearts. 

Author Debra Tidball has qualifications in social work and children’s literature. Anchored is a beautiful story all on its own, but also explores the feelings a child may have with separation anxiety.

This gentle story reassures a child that their caregiver / parent will always return and that all will be well if they have to be apart for a time.

The illustrations soft blue hues of the harbour are soothing and calm, and the sounds of Tug and Ship greeting each other again will be fun to sound out with a listening child.

A timeless story for our busy lives.   

Author – Debra Tidball

Illustrator – Arielle Li

Picture Book

(2023, Exisle Publishing, EK Books, Tugboat, Ships, Nautical, Connection, Missing someone, Apart from loved ones, Waiting, Love, Reassuring, Anchored to each other, Separation Anxiety)