What readers say about Tim Battersby
Book Praise & Reader Reviews
There is no greater reward for an author than hearing from readers who have connected with a story.
Over the years, readers, reviewers, fellow authors, and literary professionals have shared their thoughts on my books. Their generous comments, reviews, and encouragement have helped make this writing journey a truly rewarding experience.
Whether you've enjoyed a mystery, thriller, historical adventure, time-travel novel, or one of my lighter comedic tales, I am deeply grateful for every review and message received.
Below is a collection of comments, testimonials, and reviews from readers around the world. Their support continues to inspire every new story I write
NOTABLE QUOTABLES
The Newspaper Chronicles Trilogy GOODREADS
by
Jennifer's review
Jul 08, 2026
I absolutely loved The Newspaper Chronicles Trilogy. Even though it's a hefty collection, I found myself flying through the pages because each story kept raising the stakes while staying focused on the characters.
Jamie Stroud is the kind of protagonist that's easy to root for, smart, determined, and flawed in all the right ways. The chemistry between Jamie, Lucy, and Sir Christopher is one of the trilogy's biggest strengths. Their banter, loyalty, and different personalities make them feel like a real team, and Poirot the bloodhound is a wonderful addition who steals more than a few scenes.
What impressed me most was how the books blend investigative journalism, political corruption, organized crime, and international mystery without ever feeling overly complicated. The transition from the gritty streets of Chicago to the intrigue of England gives the trilogy a fresh feel, and every installment offers its own memorable twists while building toward a satisfying overall story.
If you enjoy fast-paced mysteries with engaging characters, clever plotting, and a mix of suspense, humor, and heart, this trilogy is well worth your time. I was invested from beginning to end and would happily read more adventures with this group. A thoroughly entertaining read that deserves five stars.
School Library Journal
"Though disguised as goofy frivolous fun, The Battersby Duo's antics and songs simmer with serious themes. The Battersby Duo's songs offer honest non-threatening glimpses into a Child's world of understanding and imagination. Their beautiful voices and pleasing music shine."
Wolf Trap Farm Park Performing Arts Center
Kids go bananas for The Battersby Duo." The Tampa Tribune "The Battersby’s are naturals for our audiences.”
" The Battersby Duo are always a huge hit with the Kids and their Parents.”
Hillary Clinton.
“A banquet of silliness designed to please the most refined of juvenile palates."
The American Library Association
"The Battersby Duo provides a wonderful mix of Melody, Energy, Sweetness and Humor."
Kimbo Educational
“We will remember with pleasure that The Battersby's are a part of our neighborhood."
Mr. Rogers Neighborhood
“A thousand happy Kids had the best time of their lives."
Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center
"Goofy wacky and whimsical are all adjectives to describe the musical antics of The Battersby Duo. Their beautiful voices shine.
School Library Journal
Battersby Duo songs effervesce with off-the-wall humor, unexpected lyrics and a dash of British quirkiness.
Parents Choice Magazine
Battersby Duo songs effervesce with off-the-wall humor, unexpected lyrics and a dash of British quirkiness.
Parents Choice Magazine
"Taking zaniness to new levels."
St Petersburg Times
"The Battersby Duo is a National Treasure."
Senator Bob Graham Florida's 39th Governor
"Monty Python meets Mary Poppins. The Battersby's are a Top Notch Duo."
Sesame Street
“Rarely do our marble walls and chandeliers witness such levels of silliness, as The Battersby’s inspire in their audiences”
The Kennedy Center
Children’s GRAMMY Nominee Concert at The Mint in LA
ANATHEORITIS (Professor of Early Childhood Development)
It was with some trepidation that I attended the Children’s Grammy Nominee Concert at the Mint nightclub with my daughter last Saturday, (the day before the actual Grammy Award Ceremony), simply because the venue for this annual and incredibly prestigious concert was being hosted at a somewhat spooky and unkid-friendly adult night club.
When we arrived and walked in the front entrance, the nightclub was dark and dingy and smelled of beer, booze and sweat; not exactly a conducive environment to bring small children to. However, we all found seats on the floor in front of the stage and waited.
My fears were immediately quelled as the Emcee of the concert, Heidi Swedberg; (Susan on Seinfeld) appeared on stage to introduce the first of the Grammy Nominees. Heidi was delightful, warm, and friendly, immediately putting the parents and children at ease. You could almost hear a collective sigh of relief from the parents. She cracked a couple of jokes before telling us that the first act, The Battersby Duo not only were Grammy Nominees, and Emmy winners, but had performed at The White House for The President and First Lady six times and had also appeared on Sesame Street. Parents began to realize that even though the venue was less than perfect, they and their children were in for a huge treat.
The Battersby Duo, a British American musical comedy team for Children, and 30 year veterans of children’s music, immediately won us and wowed us with an interactive and brilliant 10 minute opening set, finishing with their breakaway hit song, (from their Grammy nominated CD Sunny Days,) a fantastic sing-along version of “I Love Bubbles,” that had parents in the room (who didn’t even know they could sing) and children, literally rocking the house, and raising the roof. This was a wonderful beginning to this Grammy Children’s Concert.
In the final analysis, the unusual concert venue didn’t matter. As with anything “Kid,”… grown-ups are taught to expect the unexpected. The performances by The Battersby Duo, Bill Harley, Steve Pullara, Judy Pancoast, and Justin Roberts, were all excellent and diverse. The children all had a wonderful time, singing, clapping, and dancing, with their friends and parents. The fact that these talented performers got together, donating their valuable time to raise money for Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation was generous and kind, and taught this reporter a valuable lesson. The fact that these fine performers have devoted collectively over 100 years to honing their skills as children’s recording artists makes us understand their level of passion and commitment as teachers and helps make this parent strive to work just a little bit harder every day.
To my way of thinking every performer on that little stage at The Mint last Saturday walked away with a GRAMMY, and most importantly, walked away a WINNER.
💬 Reader & Industry Endorsements
“As addictive as your favorite crime series—once you start, you can’t stop.”
— Catherine M., Goodreads Reviewer
“Poirot the bloodhound deserves his own spin-off! What a clever, heartwarming addition to a gripping mystery series.”
— Book Blogger, The Cozy Sleuth
“A cinematic, richly layered trilogy that feels destined for the screen.”
— Martin L., Film and TV Producer
“The kind of mystery storytelling Agatha Christie fans have been waiting for—fresh, funny, and fiercely intelligent.”
— Rita D., Author of The Vicarage Murders*
— The London Literary Review
Thank you for sharing your compelling short story, Paperback Writer. Your storytelling demonstrates a strong sense of suspense, vivid imagery, and complex character development. The way you weave the protagonist’s inner turmoil, dark dreams, and the intertwining of real and fictional crimes creates an engaging narrative that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish. Your ability to balance psychological depth with plot twists showcases your talent as a writer.
Mae Genson, Archway Books. Division of Simon and Schuster
“A taut, cinematic thriller with a musician’s heart. Battersby turns an ordinary street corner into a stage for danger, courage, and art.”
— Readers’ Favorite
“Fast, vivid, and beautifully atmospheric—The Busker captures San Francisco in all its fog and fire. A gripping page-turner.”
— Midwest Book Review
“A thriller that hums like a guitar string. Battersby blends suspense and humanity in perfect harmony.”
— BookTribune
“Tense, poetic, and emotionally charged. The Busker will keep you reading long after the last note fades.”
— The San Francisco Chronicle (Arts Feature)
An uproariously funny and surprisingly profound odyssey. Battersby brews absurdity and insight in equal measure.”
— The Times Literary Review
“Think Douglas Adams with a dash of Kafka and a double shot of Nick Hornby. The Coffee Conundrum is comic brilliance with a human heart.”
— The Guardian (UK)
“Battersby turns a caffeine crisis into an existential adventure—satirical, surreal, and unforgettably funny.”
— The Chicago Tribune
“Few writers can make philosophy this entertaining. A hilarious, bittersweet reflection on our modern rituals and the absurd pursuit of purpose.”
— BookPage
“Smart, wry, and wonderfully mad. Battersby’s wit is as strong as a triple espresso, and just as addictive.”
— The New York Journal of Books
“I laughed, I winced, and I immediately wanted another cup. A modern classic of comic disillusionment.”
— Michael Palin, comedian and author
“Battersby’s humor glows with warmth and absurdity—an instant pick-me-up for the mind and soul.”
— Jenny Lawson, bestselling author of Furiously Happy
“The Coffee Conundrum captures the comedy and quiet desperation of our caffeine-driven lives with impeccable timing and heart.”
— Kirkus Reviews
“A joyful, big-hearted memoir full of laughter, chaos, and pure musical magic. The Tuttles didn’t just entertain children—they lifted entire generations.”
— Marjorie Kline, Children’s Librarian, New York Public Library
“Battersby captures the beautiful absurdity of performing for kids with charm, wit, and deep affection. A must-read for anyone who believes in the transformative power of music.”
— Catherine Doyle, Director, National Association for Early Childhood Education
“Equal parts hilarious and moving… This book renewed my faith in what art can do when it’s made with love.”
— Julian Marks, Grammy-winning producer
“Battersby writes with warmth, honesty, and perfect comedic timing. I laughed, I cried, and I immediately wanted to hear ‘Pat Your Hands’ again.”
— Michael Andrews, author of Songs We Grew Up With*
“A heartfelt tribute to childhood, creativity, and the performers who devote their lives to sparking joy. The Tuttles’ legacy shines brightly.”
— *Dana Lopez, Arts & Culture Reviewer, Baltimore Sun
“A masterful blend of investigative grit and classic mystery charm.”
— The London Literary Review
“Tim Battersby writes with the rhythm of a songwriter and the eye of a painter. The Busker proves that even the smallest stages can host the grandest dramas.”
— The London Literary Review