Friday First Chapters #45: Lucie Stevens reads ‘Nanny Tobbins and the Midnight Plan’

August 7, 2026

In this episode of the Your Kid’s Next Read Friday First Chapters series:

Lucie Stevens reads ‘Nanny Tobbins and the Midnight Plan’

Lucie Stevens reads from ‘Nanny Tobbins and the Midnight Plan’, book #2 in her funny middle-grade fantasy series.

About Lucie Stevens

Lucie Stevens is a children’s writer who grew up in a semi-rural area of Dharug Country, north-west of Sydney. After working in Australian publishing houses for many years, she moved to Berlin, where she helped make education outreach programs for the UK and European Space Agencies.

Now, having resettled in Gadigal Country, Sydney, Lucie works as a freelance editor for NGOs and not-for-profit organisations. She has authored and co-authored several books for the education market, on topics ranging from mudlarks to Mars.

Lucie’s debut children’s novel, R.I.P. Nanny Tobbins, was long-listed for the ARA Historical Novel Prize. She is a recipient of the 2025/26 Vaucluse House Creative and Cultural Residency, which provides her with a beautiful place to write in Birrabirragal Country.

Find out more.

Listen to our interview with Lucie Stevens about ‘R.I.P. Nanny Tobbins’

About ‘Nanny Tobbins and the Midnight Plan’

The sequel to R.I.P. Nanny Tobbins, the quirky and very funny MG fantasy title that is perfect for fans of A Girl Called Corpse and Nevermoor.

1851, London

Six months have passed since the grand opening of the Great Exhibition — and Albertine and her family couldn’t be happier.

But the season of good fortune ends abruptly when a Royal Jewel goes missing and Albertine’s friend, dearest Blot, is accused of its theft. Determined to prove Blot’s innocence, Papa launches an investigation. Yet despite his best efforts, the true thief cannot be found.

With time running short before Blot is imprisoned, Albertine hatches a plan. She will enlist the help of the grown-up with the sharpest eyes she knows: her ghost-governess, Nanny Tobbins.

Residing in the graveyard has, however, turned Nanny quite odd and managing her is rather difficult.

Will Nanny Tobbins’ presence assist Albertine in clearing Blot’s name, or will it make matters worse?

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Published by HarperCollins Publishers Australia.