Book Launch for Custard and Carriages

WHERE: Westland District Library, Sewel St, Hokitika
WHEN:   Saturday 9 July
TIME:     2:20-3:30pm

It's official - I'm having a Book Launch! The Westland District Library in Hokitika have kindly agreed to host the event, which will run between 2:30-3:30pm. I've never done anything like this before! Public speaking is not my strong point!
It would be great to have lots of support on the day. There will be copies of Custard and Carriages for sale and I'm more than happy to sign them.
I'm amazed at the responses I've received from people so far. Everyone has been very encouraging and supportive.
See you there!

Illustrations from the Book

First Display Opportunity

I had a very busy day yesterday! There was a homeschool conference just down the road from my place, so I set up some of my books to display and promote. It was sort a last minute arrangement. My books arrived late last week and I only emailed one of the organisers on Monday to ask if I could set up for the day. Although they were pushed for space in the main hall, she managed to find somewhere for me in the entrance foyer.
I'm not the sort of person who naturally finds that sort of thing easy and stimulating. No, it's more of a challenge - but I did it... and made some sales! Yay!! People actually like my book! That's a good feeling.

I even felt a little bit famous when I signed copies of my book for people.

A Long Time to Wait

The desire to write and illustrate a childrens' picture book had been bouncing around in my head for about a year before I finally hit on an idea for the story. My grandfather worked on the railways for four decades, driving trains up and down the West Coast.
I remember the wonder and excitement I felt, as a young child, when I stayed with him and when he took me to visit the noisy, dirty train station.
As I began to create the story and illustrations, I was able to use a lot of his photographs as referrences for my work. Finally, after four years, my story has made it into print!






Early this morning, the courier delivered a carton to my house - a carton full of MY books. At long last, I can see it in a real book format. Very exciting!! Now the hard work really begins.