A Leicester author aims to inspire a love of reading and nature through her latest children's book.
The Fast And The Curious tells the story of beatboxing bug G-Nat, a bug who lives and performs in Leicester’s Libraries.
Children’s author Jayne Williams says she was inspired by staff and families who visited Beaumont Leys Library and the Brite Centre at Braunstone, and included them in the book.
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It is the second in the Bug Book series which has been published by Honey Craft, a children’s book publishing company set up by Liga Orlovska. Liga, a De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) graduate, who is passionate about teaching children about nature.
“This book is a real celebration of reading and Leicester city libraries,” said Liga. “Children go on adventures with each book they read, and they will love G-Nat who performs on the books and makes wild parties at Leicester libraries.
“It’s important to us that our books are written and illustrated by local artists, printed and sold locally creating belonging and stories to grow up with for children in Leicester. We can’t wait to introduce G-Nat to children and parents.”
The first book about a bee called Zuub, was launched at the LCB Depot in the Cultural Quarter, and Honey Craft also set up a real beehive in the LCB courtyard.
The new book will be launched at Leicester’s Central Library on Saturday, October 23, with a big bug party for children aged five to 11 and a bee-spoke beatboxer, Mr Shay.
Jayne said: “Working with families in Leicester and getting to know them across long Library residencies was such a privilege. The bright, fun and cheeky elements from all my mini beast characters are taken from qualities of the characters I've met along the way. Keith Turner’s illustrations have absolutely brought them to life."
Hetha Copland, area development manager for Leicester City Libraries neighbourhood services team, said: “Working with new writers and artists is wonderful. Local people coming into our libraries to be part of activities and book borrowing is even better when the books themselves have a local link. We welcome all the people of Leicester into our buildings to share our excitement at starting new adventures with new authors. Working with new writers and artists is wonderful.”
