My children have grown up reading books by Deborah Kelly, a local Lake Macquarie children’s author. We definitely joined in the fun when we read ‘Dinosaur Disco’. Then we explored our families special relationships when we read ‘Me and You’. My girls have also loved the stories of ‘Ruby Wishfingers’ so much so that my youngest dressed as Ruby for her first book week parade at primary school.
Lake Macquarie children’s author
Deborah Kelly grew up in New Zealand on a farm which produced green beans and garlic. She has always enjoyed writing books, so much so that at the ripe old age of 7, she produced her first picture books. Ironically, at university, Deborah studied Marine Biology and has now brought these two passions together in this book.
After travelling and spending time living in Scotland and Japan, Deborah settled in Lake Macquarie and now calls this beautiful part of the world home.
Book launch
This week Deborah Kelly was at Belmont Library launching her latest children’s book, ‘The Thing about Oliver’. Written for children aged 10 to 12 in mind, this book offers adventure and problem-solving at this ripe age. Joining a large crowd, we headed in to hear what her latest story was all about.
The library was filled with scenes from life under the water. There was a table overflowing with marine decorated cupcakes and some of the children were even dressed as sharks and crabs.
The book’s plot
The book tells the story of a young girl called Tilly who wants to become a marine scientist. She dreams of spending her time sailing, diving and discovering the creatures that live in the sea. But she has to learn to swim first. Tilly lives in a town in rural Australia where it hasn’t rained for so long that they are in a drought. Her younger brother, Oliver, is autistic and between paying for the care that Oliver needs and running to his many appointments there is never any time or money for swimming lessons. When Tilly’s mum loses her job and decides to relocate her family to the coast of Queensland Tilly goes between excitement and terror.
Will she now be able to learn to swim? Maybe even have the chance to snorkel on the reef? Will her brother’s issues with adapting to change create bigger problems for her family?
Need a good book for your kids?
It was lovely watching Deborah read some of her book to the kids, big and small. Questions were very inquisitive and centered around life under the sea.
After a lot of thinking and laughter, the kids certainly enjoyed a cupcake or two. Then the kids happily perused the range of books on offer, which were all written by Deborah, so they could add to their book collection. I could tell Deborah really enjoyed talking to everyone and signing copies of the book. I’m sure it’s the most amazing feeling seeing your stories come to life and be enjoyed by children.
If you’re looking for a present for a child, or just need a new idea for their next book to read, this is a great story that will appeal to both boys and girls. Make sure you get hold of a copy now.
Grab your copy here: Booktopia The Thing About Oliver
