Heather's tribute to late husband in literary debut
A Shropshire author who lost her husband has kept his memory alive for her grandchildren by including him as a character in her debut children's book.
Sid the Madeiran Wall Lizard has been written by Heather Heath Gorton, and she hopes through it to educate her young readers aged up to seven about wildlife and its habitats, teach them morals about kindness and responsibility and, of course, entertain them with Sid's story.
"Sadly I was bereaved a few years ago, but have been fortunate to marry again," said Heather.
"The story is dedicated to my four grandchildren, with the aim of giving them a lasting memory of my late husband who appears in the story as Pete, the mouse who keeps everyone safe."
In the book Sid has a problem keeping his feet cool in the hot Madeiran sunshine, and with the help of his friends, including his special pal Pete, he eventually discovers a cool solution.
The book has a little game for young readers to find Pete the mouse hiding in some of the illustrations.
Heather said: "In writing this I hope to give my grandchildren inspiration to care for their friends and to try their best to achieve their aspirations.
"But it's also aimed at teaching children about wildlife and their habitat.
"Lizards show no fear of humans, always out in the open on the rocks. I want to share a story both to entertain and educate in the ways of these very special little lizards so that everyone loves them."
Heather trained as a nursery nurse and worked as a nanny in San Francisco for a year. She has also trained as a holistic therapist, and her current work is as a special needs teaching assistant.
Sid the Madeiran Wall Lizard is officially published on June 28 by Troubador Publishing, and costs £6.99.
