Isle of Wight author Lizzie Thomas has written ten short stories inspired by the Island’s rich folklore, reimagining familiar legends and introducing entirely new tales drawn from its mysterious history.
Her new book, The Wightfolk Tales, explores the ghostly encounters, strange characters and extraordinary stories that have become part of the Island’s cultural heritage.
From the mysterious All Colours Sam, better known as the Sandown Clown, to original stories inspired by the Island’s landscapes and traditions, Lizzie brings a fresh perspective to the folklore that has fascinated generations.
The 201-page paperback, published by Isle of Wight independent publisher Lemon Jelly Press, offers readers an imaginative journey through the Island’s more mysterious side.
Familiar legends, fresh perspectives
Rather than simply retelling traditional legends, Lizzie has created her own interpretations, blending elements of local history, folklore and fiction to produce ten distinctive short stories.
Lizzie said,
“I’m really excited to finally share these stories with readers. The Isle of Wight has such a fascinating collection of folklore, and I wanted to explore some of the legends people might already know, like All Colours Sam, but offer a different perspective on them.
“I’ve also created some completely new stories inspired by the Island and its history. I hope readers enjoy discovering these characters and mysteries as much as I’ve enjoyed writing them.”
About the author
Lizzie Thomas moved to Cowes on the Isle of Wight as a young child and still lives on the Island with her husband and two young children.
Having spent most of her life on the Island, Lizzie has always had a fascination with its rich folklore, haunting legends and ghostly tales. She has been writing for many years, and her love of the Island’s history and storytelling traditions inspired her to create The Wightfolk Tales.
The collection brings together ten short stories that reimagine elements of the Island’s folklore, each with Lizzie’s own unique creative interpretation.
Lizzie is already working on the second book in The Wightfolk Tales series, alongside a separate work of fiction.
Celebrating the Island’s Storytelling Heritage
The Wightfolk Tales celebrates the Island’s rich cultural heritage while introducing its folklore to a new generation of readers.
With its atmospheric storytelling and strong local connections, the book also makes an ideal Christmas gift for anyone with a love of the Isle of Wight, local history or a good mystery.
The book is published by Lemon Jelly Press CIC, an Isle of Wight independent publisher supporting emerging and established writers through original fiction, poetry, children’s literature and community-led creative projects.
Available in time for Christmas
The Wightfolk Tales is available to order now from Lemon Jelly Press, with copies being dispatched from 15th December 2026.
News shared by Lottie on behalf of Lemon Jelly Press. Ed
