CHUGWATER STUDIOS

Where Magic Is Homemade

Children’s stories full of imagination, humour, and heart,
for kids and grown-ups alike.

Stories built for lasting impact

Children’s stories full of imagination, humour, and heart – for kids and grown-ups alike.

The Thingamajigs are manifestations of the choices we make and the things we carry inside us.

Through humour and adventure, The Chugwater Chronicles explores childhood emotions, kindness, courage and how our actions affect others.

THE CHUGWATER CHRONICLES – BOOK 1

If the world was for sale… how much would you pay?

Meet Greyson Grim and step into the world of
The Chugwater Chronicles.

THE CHUGWATER CHRONICLES – BOOK 2

Making a bully is easy. Understanding one is harder.

The next chapter of Chugwater world is on its way.

THE STUDIO

Meet Matt

van Rensburg

The storyteller behind Chugwater Studios.

THE CHUGWATER CHRONICLES

Welcome to Chugwater

A sleepy town that’s in for a rude awakening. Explore the world where the story lives.

Awards & Reviews

“How to Sell the World”
Moonbeam Children's Book Awards, 2026 Gold Medal Winner

Selected by Kirkus Indie editors for the August 1, 2026 issue of Kirkus Reviews magazine.

“A nonsensical but ultimately hopeful bit of whimsy – GET IT”

Read Kircus article

Kirkus Reviews, KIRKUS INDIE

“A beautifully-written story about kindness and friendship that is sure to inspire hope when faced with the dreariness of life – MUST READ”

Read Reedsy article

Renee Padmore, Reedsy Discovery

School visits & workshops

A dynamic, interactive experience built around story, perspective, and choice

Join the world

A glimpse into how we bring The Chugwater Chronicles to life