Winter is one of my favourite times of year to live and work alongside my animals. Although the past few months has been a challenge with all the wet weather we have experienced in Yorkshire. Slower Mornings, Stronger Routines Winter mornings start earlier and take a little longer. Before anything else, I head outside layered up against the cold to begin the animal rounds. There are water buckets to defrost, feeds to prepare, rugs to check, and beds to refresh. Everyone gets a little extra attention in winter extra forage, thicker bedding, closer checks. It's important that we check the horses under the rugs and as the sheep get wooly make sure they have enough feed! It’s not very glamorous having animals in winter frozen taps and muddy boots are very real, but I wouldn't have it any other way. There’s something special about seeing the animals settled and comfortable while the world is still waking up. How Winter Changes the Animals Each of my animals reacts to winter differently, and I love seeing their personalities shine through the season. Some grow enormous fluffy coats and look very pleased with themselves. Some are extra energetic in the cold air. Others prefer the warmest corner they can find and a slower day. I adapt routines for each one — adjusting feed, shelter, turnout time, and enrichment because good care is never one-size-fits-all. So many of my book ideas come from these real winter moments a cheeky stable face appearing through the steam of warm breath, dogs charging through a frosty field, or a quiet, calm check at dusk when everything feels still. Winter Is My Writing Season.... Winter gives me precious creative space. With fewer events and more indoor evenings, I spend more time writing, editing, and planning new stories. I often write after evening checks, still in my yard clothes, with a warm drink beside me and notes from the day fresh in my mind. The best scenes are usually inspired by real life: Frosty gates at sunrise Snow settled on stable roofs Quiet animal moments that feel almost magical Those details find their way into my stories because they’re genuine and they’re lived. The Cosy Side of Country Life There is a cosy side to winter animal life that I treasure warm feeds, content animals, golden low sunsets, and that feeling of closing the yard for the night knowing everyone is safe and settled. It’s not perfect or polished it’s real, practical, and sometimes messy but it’s full of heart. That’s exactly the feeling I always try to capture in my books and online, honest countryside life, strong animal friendships, and small moments of joy. Why Winter Matters to Me, and My Stories Looking after animals through winter teaches patience, responsibility, kindness, and consistency. You show up no matter the weather. You put their needs first. You learn to notice the little changes. Those lessons naturally shape the messages in my books care, compassion, resilience, and friendship. Winter reminds me that stories don’t just come from big adventures they grow from daily care, quiet routines, and the bond we build with animals every single day. Although I find moments to enjoy in winter, I can't wait for the warmer, dryer spring days ahead...

Hannah Russell, Harold & Humphrey December always arrives with that familiar mix of magic and mayhem twinkly lights, cosy days, and the “how is it Christmas already?!” feeling… all wrapped up in one. This month has been very me : a little slower, a little muddier, and full of heart. A little bump in the road (winter flu!) If you’ve been following along, you’ll know I had to make the decision to cancel my book signing because I’ve been in bed with winter flu and honestly, I was gutted to let anyone down. But sometimes, especially at this time of year, we have to listen to our bodies and give them what they need. Earlier this year I had emergency surgery, and my immune system still isn’t quite where it should be, so I’m taking recovery seriously and focusing on getting properly well again. The book signing will be rearranged for 2026, and I just want to say the biggest thank you for all the lovely messages and understanding it truly means the world. Pottering around with the animals Even when I’m not at full speed, the animals keep life moving (and keep me smiling!). December on the farm is all about the simple things: checking everyone’s warm and cosy, topping up hay and water, muddy boots and chilly hands, and those quiet little moments where everything feels calm and safe. There’s something about “pottering” that feels extra special in winter no rushing, just being present and soaking up the small joys. Christmas books, cosy stories & gifting season December is also such a lovely time for books the season of thoughtful gifting, bedtime stories, and little traditions that families treasure. I’ve been so grateful for everyone ordering books online as Christmas presents (thank you, thank you, thank you!). The Christmas books always feel extra magical this time of year full of festive sparkle, countryside charm, and those warm, comforting themes that make this season what it is: kindness, friendship, family, and a little bit of farmyard fun. If you’re still looking for stocking fillers or a gift that feels personal and wholesome, a signed children’s book is such a gorgeous choice and there’s still time to order online... Looking ahead Little Alf Book Right now, the plan is simple: rest, recover, and keep things gentle with plenty of animal cuddles (the best medicine, honestly). I’m looking forward to being back to normal, getting new plans in the diary, and heading into 2026 feeling stronger. Thank you for being here, for supporting my stories, and for cheering me on through the busy seasons and  the slower ones. Wishing you the cosiest December.... Hannah Russell ✨

If you love animals, countryside adventures, and heartwarming tales, then you’re in the right place. Little Alf and Friends  is a book series that’s incredibly close to my heart. It all began with one small, cheeky miniature Shetland pony who trotted into my life and completely changed it – that pony was Little Alf . Standing just 28 inches high, Little Alf may be small in size, but he’s full of mischief, curiosity, and charm. From the moment I met him, I knew he was going to be a big character in my life, and before long, he became the star of his very own book series. The Little Alf and Friends  books follow the adventures of Little Alf and the animals who share my home in the Yorkshire Dales. Throughout the series, you’ll meet Winston, my loyal flat-coated retriever, the mischievous goats, our gentle alpacas, and many more countryside characters who bring so much joy (and occasional chaos!) to everyday life. The Book series is a fictional series for children. The stories are filled with themes of friendship, courage, kindness, and the unique bonds we share with animals. Each book is inspired by real events and the magical moments I’ve experienced living on our little farm. Whether it’s Little Alf escaping from his stable, Winston getting into a muddy mess, or the goats causing their usual trouble, these stories always bring a smile and often a good laugh. What makes this series extra special is that it’s written not just for children, but for anyone who loves animals and enjoys simple, feel-good stories from the countryside. I often hear from parents, grandparents, and young readers who tell me they’ve shared the books as bedtime stories or that Little Alf has become a family favourite. The Little Alf and Friends  books aren’t just about animals – they’re about life lessons, overcoming challenges, and finding joy in the little things. Little Alf himself has taught me so much about resilience, love, and how sometimes, the smallest things can make the biggest difference. As the series continues to grow, I’m excited to share even more stories and introduce you to new friends along the way. I hope that through these books, readers of all ages can escape to our little patch of Yorkshire and feel the magic of the countryside come to life. Thank you for joining us on this journey – from Little Alf’s stable to your bookshelf.... Best Selling Author Hannah Russell & Little Alf

Hello, I’m Hannah Russell – a best-selling author, countryside enthusiast, and the creator of Little Alf and Friends . I’ve been writing stories since I was a teenager, and what began as a passion project has now turned into a life-long career that I absolutely adore. My books are deeply rooted in the rural lifestyle I’m lucky enough to live every day here in Yorkshire, surrounded by animals, rolling hills, and plenty of muddy boots. My writing journey began with Little Alf , the story of my cheeky miniature Shetland pony who stands just 28 inches high but has one of the biggest personalities I’ve ever known. What started as a way to share our adventures soon became a series loved by readers of all ages across the world. Since then, I’ve written a variety of children’s books, teenage fiction, and adult stories – each inspired by the animals in my life and the beautiful countryside that has always been my home. Every morning, I’m greeted by the familiar sounds of life on the farm – the gentle bleating of sheep, the rustling of alpacas, and the excited barks of Winston, my flat-coated retriever and loyal companion. Winston features in many of my stories now; he’s the ultimate countryside sidekick and never too far from my side, whether we’re walking the moors or simply curled up with a good book. I often say that I write what I live. My books aren’t just stories – they’re a reflection of real moments, heartfelt memories, and a deep connection to animals and nature. From tales of friendship and courage to stories of loss and finding strength, I hope readers can find comfort, inspiration, and a little bit of magic in the pages I write. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to receive awards for my work and to have my books featured in national publications such as The Yorkshire Post , BBC Radio , The Guardian , and Country Living . I’ve also had the honour of becoming an ambassador for the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, something I’m incredibly proud of as it ties closely to my passion for the countryside and conservation. When I’m not writing, I can often be found fly fishing, another hobby that has helped me through life’s tougher moments. It’s peaceful, it’s grounding, and it’s where I find some of my best ideas. Thank you for stopping by to learn a little more about me. I hope you enjoy the stories I’ve shared – they’ve all been written with love, from my little corner of the Yorkshire Dales. Author Hannah Russell