Our Editorial Ethos
At Ashtead Press, we believe in the enduring power of childhood adventure. Inspired by the timeless warmth and heart of authors like Eva Ibbotson and Frank Cottrell-Boyce, alongside the adventurous spirit of the Children's Film Foundation, our books celebrate outdoor escapism, sharp intellects, unwavering loyalty, and the thrill of discovery.
While our stories carry a nostalgic, reassuring warmth, they are crafted with modern sensibilities. Across our publishing list, our books champion contemporary young protagonists who navigate challenges with emotional intelligence, resourcefulness, and mutual respect, demonstrating that pluck, curiosity, and teamwork can overcome any obstacle.
The Gang Mysteries
Our flagship series, The Gang Mysteries, follows four young sleuths, Yasmin, Leela, Jack, and Harry, representing contemporary children who team up on family holidays across the British Isles.
The series spans six standalone yet interconnected adventures across evocative landscapes and dramatic coastlines, from wartime radar ruins on the North-East coast and hidden smuggler caverns in Cornwall to covert laboratories beneath Exmoor, ancient towers in the Cotswolds, and coastal island redoubts. Each book is crafted to hook confident and reluctant readers alike with brisk chapters, high stakes, and satisfying deductions.
About Our Authors
Ashtead Press is proud to collaborate with talented writers crafting timeless, intelligent fiction for inquisitive young minds. As our publishing programme expands, we look forward to introducing exciting new authorial voices to our list.