Local author and filmmaker Felicity Fair Thompson will celebrate 80 years of Cowes Library this weekend, with readings from her new children’s book inspired by The Needles Lighthouse.
Felicity will be reading her latest adventure story called Grandpa’s Dear Old Girl at Cowes Library this Saturday (9th October), from 10:00 to 12:30. She will also be showing visitors the last lightbulb from the Needles Lighthouse, which inspired her to write the book.
The author explains:
“I was making a travel film about the Isle of Wight and I was invited to film the last lighthouse keeper at The Needles Lighthouse, on the very day it was going to be automated!”
Grandpa’s Dear Old Girl is a story with a strong female hero called Millie who helps her grandpa, the last lighthouse keeper, when fishermen get into trouble during a big storm.
After writing her tale Felicity approached publisher Beachy Books who loved the story and signed her on the spot. In collaboration with professional Island artist Carolyn Pavey, atmospheric black and white illustrations and cover art were commissioned, which magically capture the scenes in the book and give it a classic adventure story feel.
Grandpa’s Dear Old Girl has received some fantastic endorsements from professional writers including Michelle Magorian, author of Goodnight Mister Tom.
The book is priced at £7.99 and is available at Waterstones, Newport.
