inspiration behind my books
Since I was very small I always wanted to be a teacher of young children.
I was fortunate to realise that ambition and taught at several primary (elementary) schools in South London and Surrey in the UK.
At the end of each day in the classroom we would have Storytime, and I used to look forward to making up stories to share with the children. The looks and smiles on their faces were just so rewarding, it warmed my heart. My own two young children David and Sarah often came into the classroom with me to share the experience.
David heard some of these stories and told me I should write them down, which I did not do at the time. I didn’t think they were good enough.
In recent years several decades later David had been pushing me to write them down and have them published. His career had led him to be the manager of a publishing company’s Sydney office in Australia.
His sudden passing in March last year made me realise just how precious and short life is and that I needed to honour him by following through on what he had wanted me to do.
That’s how the first story The Mouse who wanted to Dance came about.
Since then I’ve had many sleepless nights because of his loss and during these long periods awake in the night stories just keep coming into my head.
Two further stories are in various stages of completion, and my imagination keeps flowing …..
My objective is to recreate the excitement, wonder, and happiness that I remember in those young children’s faces from all those years ago.
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The Mouse Who Wanted to Dance is a delightful children’s story about Monty, a small mouse with a big heart.
Teased by his siblings and afraid of the world outside, Monty finds encouragement from his spirited grandmother,
Ellie, who teaches him the joy of music and the magic of dance.
As Monty learns to sway, twirl, and move to the music, he discovers his inner courage and ventures outside to make
unlikely friends. Along the way, he transforms from a timid mouse into a confident dancer, showing his siblings and
himself the power of self-expression.
Perfect for young readers, this charming tale celebrates bravery, individuality, and the joy of following your dreams.
My Books
Available Books
The Mouse Who Wanted To Dance.
The Mouse Who Wanted to Dance is a delightful children’s story about Monty, a small mouse with a big heart. Teased by his siblings and afraid of the world outside, Monty finds encouragement from his spirited grandmother, Ellie, who teaches him the joy of music and the magic of dance.
As Monty learns to sway, twirl, and move to the music, he discovers his inner courage and ventures outside to make unlikely friends. Along the way, he transforms from a timid mouse into a confident dancer, showing his siblings and himself the power of self-expression.
Perfect for young readers, this charming tale celebrates bravery, individuality, and the joy of following your dreams.
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Glug - a very lonely seagull
This is the story of Glug – a lonely seagull who liked peace and quiet. His favourite foods were pizza, tuna sandwiches, and ice cream. He set out in search of someone to be his friend and met an owl, a small brown dog called Charlie, two sad ladies, and a lost cat. What happened? Did he make a friend?
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The Giant With No Name
This is the story of a strange giant who lived alone in a cave high up on Mount Kitty, near the little village of Medford. He loved animals and was friends with a family of mice that included Twitch, Monty’s grandfather.
The giant would secretly visit the village at night and take things back to his cave. Occasionally rocks would tumble down the mountain side. The villagers were afraid and there were rumours of a monster living in the caves above them.
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MOODY: A VERY BAD TEMPERED OWL
This is the story of an owl named Moody. His parents gave him that name because he was so different from his two siblings, always angry and difficult to deal with. He showed his bad temper to everyone he met in the forest where his family lived.
One day while trying to fly to the top of the mountain he met a friendly giant and his pal James. Moody got to know his new friends and they suggested he change his name to MATEY. From this point on he changed his character completely and vowed to be nice and pleasant to everybody.
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The Medford Villagers, Mrs Henderson, & Her Cats
Step into the charming village of Medford, where surprises wait around every corner and kindness can change a life forever.
Meet Mrs. Millicent Henderson, a spirited elderly woman who lives in a mysterious old house at the foot of Mount Kitty with her seven beloved cats, Midnight, Snowflake, Billy, Tilly, and their playful kittens Milly, Lily, and Dilly.
Though her house is old and crumbling, and her garden has grown wild, Mrs. Henderson treasures her independence and quietly lives her simple life. But when a series of unexpected adventures unfold—from daring kitten rescues to a remarkable discovery hidden deep within an ancient well, the entire village comes together in ways no one could have imagined.
Filled with lovable animal characters, gentle humor, heartwarming friendships, and valuable lessons about community, kindness, and accepting help when it’s needed, The Medford Villagers, Mrs. Henderson, and Her Cats is a delightful story that will capture the hearts of young readers and adults alike.
This beautifully illustrated children’s story reminds us that sometimes life’s greatest surprises come when we least expect them and that friendship can be found in the most unexpected places.
Perfect for readers who love wholesome animal adventures, cozy village tales, and uplifting stories about compassion, courage, and hope.
the mouse who
wanted to dance
The Mouse Who Wanted to Dance tells the story of Monty, a timid mouse teased by his siblings but inspired by his spirited grandmother, Ellie, who introduces him to the joy of music and dance.
As Monty learns to twirl and sway, he gains the courage to step outside, make new friends, and show the world his true self. This delightful tale celebrates bravery, individuality, and the magic of following your dreams.
Book Reviews
Great Read with the grandchildren: Children will love the colorful pictures and the lesson of you can do it!!
Inspiring Story: This is a lovely story about a shy little mouse named Monty who wants to dance. It teaches kids to believe in themselves and follow their dreams.
Miriam
Wonderful Characters: Monty and his grandma Ellie are such fun and lovable characters. Their bond shows how important family and support are in reaching your goals
Marcellina
Fun and Colorful: The story is full of exciting moments and vivid descriptions that make it easy for kids to imagine Monty’s journey.
Brigida
Vividly Imagined World: The book's colorful descriptions and imaginative setting make it an enchanting experience for children. Each scene feels alive, drawing readers into Monty’s world and his exciting adventure to find his rhythm.
Emma
Uplifting Themes and Life Lessons: This story not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about perseverance, self-belief, and overcoming fears. It's a joyful reminder that everyone has a unique gift waiting to be discovered.
Sophia
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