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Gentle adventures for curious young readers — read them, hear them, or both.
Little Steps and the Quest for the 3 Symbols is an Egyptian fairy tale told entirely in haiku, written for ages 8–12 and made for reading aloud together. Choose the illustrated ebook, the audiobook narrated by Rula Lenska, or both in one bundle. Every format is an instant download.
Three ways to begin the quest
The same story, Part One of the series, in the form that suits your family best.
Read it
The Ebook
The illustrated Part One, with Lorra Ley’s artwork on the page. You receive a PDF that opens on any phone, tablet or computer, and an EPUB for e-readers and reading apps.
Best for reading together at bedtime.
Hear it
The Audiobook
Rula Lenska narrates every verse. You receive an MP3 that plays anywhere, and an M4B with chapters for audiobook apps.
Best for car journeys and quiet evenings.
Read and listen
The Bundle
The ebook and the audiobook together, four files in all, for less than buying the two separately. Follow the words on the page while Rula reads.
Best value, and best for young readers.
About the book
Set in ancient Egypt in the reign of Pharaoh Hatshepsut, the quest for the 3 Symbols is a timeless coming-of-age tale of the journey to balance the body, mind and emotions.
Once upon a time
Time past, but not forgotten
His story begins
Ten-year-old Little Steps fears his name is holding him back from greatness. With his three extraordinary friends — Red Brick the Giant, Axiom the Centaur and Lapis the Vulture — he travels up and down the Nile to find and unite the three symbols of ancient Egypt:
- The Staff represents the balance of the body.
- The Flail represents the balance of the mind.
- The Crook represents the balance of emotions.
The tale is told in three parts. In Part One you meet the characters as they set out from Buhen for the temple at Karnak, face their fears, and follow the Nile north in the quest for the first symbol, the Staff.
Along the way Little Steps learns that greatness is reached by being true to his name and taking purposeful little steps. He has a secret weapon: he pays attention.
The voices behind the story
The author
Win Real Talisman
A lifelong writer of lyrics, haiku and poetry, awarded International Poet of Merit in 1997. Little Steps first appeared in his imagination in 2000. His goal is to win the hearts and imaginations of every reader.
The narrator
Rula Lenska
A veteran actress of stage, film and television, known for Rock Follies, EastEnders and Coronation Street. She has narrated folk tales for the BBC’s Jackanory and hundreds of audiobooks.
The illustrator
Lorra Ley
A hybrid artist whose dreamlike work weaves together mythology, heritage and performance. Her original illustrations open a window onto the mystical world of ancient Egypt.
How your download works
- Choose your format and add it to your basket. If you have a promo code, enter it at the basket or at checkout.
- Pay securely by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. You can check out as a guest, so no account is needed.
- Download straight away. Your files are ready on the confirmation page as soon as payment completes, and the links are sent to you by email too.
Each file can be downloaded up to 5 times within 30 days of purchase, so save a copy to your device once you have it.
What readers say
“Little Steps is more than just a story; it’s an experience that resonates with readers of all ages, leaving them with a sense of wonder and valuable life lessons. The entire story is skillfully crafted in haiku, making every word impactful and memorable.”Reader review
Questions before you buy
What age is Little Steps for?
The story is written for ages 8–12 and is ideal for reading aloud between generations. Listeners and readers of every age enjoy it.
Is this the whole story?
This is Part One of three. It introduces the characters and follows the quest for the first symbol, the Staff. Parts Two and Three are already written.
Which file should I open?
For reading, the PDF is the recommended file and opens on any device. The EPUB is for e-readers and reading apps. For listening, the MP3 is the recommended file and plays anywhere. The M4B includes chapters and is made for audiobook apps.
How do I receive my files?
Your download links appear on the confirmation page as soon as payment completes, and they are emailed to you as well. Each file can be downloaded up to 5 times within 30 days.
Do I need an account?
No. You can check out as a guest. If you do create an account, your downloads are also listed under My Account.
Is there a printed edition?
Yes. Little Steps is also available in hardcover and paperback. See all four ways to experience the quest.