Published by Post Wave 2026

This narrative non-fiction book explores the history, technology, and human stories behind lighthouses, these enduring beacons guiding ships through time. 

'Long ago, beneath a starlit sky, travellers braved the wild waves. Lost and lonely, they yearned for a way home. Then, a flicker in the distance! A lighthouse, a beacon of hope, pierced the darkness and guided them to safety'

Media review
"showcasing the incredible variety of these structures around the world . . . in a simple and engaging way. Koomen’s striking illustrations make it really stand out."

“Offering expertly crafted portraits of 52 lighthouses past and present to highlight their exuberant diversity of design, Koomen offers a warm salute to their essential lifesaving function.”

As featured in The Sunday Times

“A picture book about lighthouses? Yes please. Maybe it’s the fact that no two are the same, or their romantic role through the ages as symbols of hope and safety, but lighthouses have always dazzled writers and artists. George Bernard Shaw could “think of no other edifice constructed by man as altruistic as a lighthouse. They were built only to serve.” For Virginia Woolf they were handy symbols for the passage of time and intense family holidays.

The Northumberland-based artist Gemma Koomen takes all the whimsy, danger and lore associated with lighthouses, and spins it into an exuberant and enjoyable book for children of all ages.”

To read the full review click here

Publisher information
Publisher: Post Wave Publishing UK Ltd
ISBN: 9781836270799
Number of pages: 48
Dimensions: 300 x 235 mm
Interest age: From 5 years
Language: English