A local author has created a children’s picture book series that aims to not only entertain young readers but also to educate them along the way.
The series is called Lily and Her Special Little Secret and it comprises nine books that follow the eponymous character and her amazing communication with her special little friends – her pencils, pencil sharpener, eraser and ruler.
Author and illustrator Alan Ketley said the storybooks were based on his career in children’s services.
“I worked for twenty years in childcare as an educator of young children from infants to five years of age, including primary school children for before-school care and after-school care,” Mr Ketley said.
According to Mr Ketley, the title character represents all children and their achievements and the special little friends (the stationery items) are about enabling Lily to learn and achieve her purpose.
“In children’s services, children are viewed as special – they are special little human beings,” Mr Ketley said.
The titles in the series detail Lily’s adventures alongside her helpers in various settings, such as a school show and tell, a butterfly nursery and a planetarium.
Local Connections and Where to Find the Series
There are references to Brisbane and even the Moreton Bay region in the books, which, according to Mr Ketley, are rare aspects in the genre.
“As far as I am aware, there are not too many children’s books available that are set in the Brisbane, Queensland area,” he said.
According to Mr Ketley, Lily learns about the voyage of Captain Cook to Australia – as well as the origin of Australia as a country and the origin of the Redcliffe Peninsula of Queensland – in book nine, Endeavour to Explore Australia.
The Lily and Her Special Little Secret book series is primarily available on Amazon and the affiliated online site Goodreads.
Local Redcliffe businesses such as Mary’s Cuppa and Treats, Kezzy’s Emporium and the Red Poppy Art Collective are assisting with book promotions.
“Copies of six of the titles are currently available for perusal and purchase at these shops,” Mr Ketley said.
You can also access links to purchase the books via the Lily and Her Special Little Secret Book Series Facebook page.
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