Plus: Win a signed copy of Ponies on the Riviera
World Book Day is all about celebrating stories that stay with you. The ones that reflect real lives, real places, and real voices. This year, Northern Insight is shining a light on a debut novel that does exactly that.
Ponies on the Riviera by Sunderland-born author Nicky Moon is a raw, funny, and deeply moving love letter to Wearside. Set entirely in Sunderland and written in an unmistakable Mackem dialect, the novel follows Paula, a girl growing up in the 1970s and 80s, dreaming of freedom while navigating poverty, family upheaval, and the tough realities of post-industrial Britain.
Spanning 25 years, the story mirrors Sunderland’s own journey through hardship, humour, and resilience. From seaside donkey rides at Roker to the changing landscape of working-class life. Told with warmth, dark humour, and fierce empathy, Ponies on the Riviera captures the voices, places, and spirit that locals will instantly recognise.
Nicky Moon, who grew up in Grindon and now lives down south, describes the book as “not just set in Sunderland – but born of it.” The characters speak the way Mackem’s speak, love the way Mackem’s love, and fight for better futures even when the odds are stacked against them. At its heart, this is a story about working-class women: their limited choices, sharp humour, and unbreakable loyalty.
Win a Signed Copy for World Book Day
To celebrate World Book Day, Northern Insight readers and viewers have the chance to win a signed copy of Ponies on the Riviera – perfect for anyone who loves powerful, regional storytelling.
To enter, all you need to do is:
· Like the Facebook page Nicky Moon Books
(https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582086938266)
· Competition is open to individuals aged 18 years or over.
Only one entry per person is permitted and the competition deadline is 31st March 2026.
That’s it. Simple, local, and a great way to support a North East author while marking World Book Day with something genuinely special.
Whether you’re from Sunderland, the wider North East, or just love stories with heart and honesty, Ponies on the Riviera is a reminder of why books (and local voices) matter.
Happy World Book Day everyone!