Youngsters from a South Tyneside School have helped to launch a new book which takes children on a magical trip around the North East. Children from Hadrian Primary School and the Mayor of South Tyneside joined local author Yvonne Carlin-Page to launch Lily, Windy and The Witch: The Journey Begins.
The book tells the tale of Lily’s journey across the region as she flies on her magic map visiting iconic places such as Arbeia Roman Fort, Souter Lighthouse and the Angel of the North.
Author Yvonne, from Whitburn, said: “Since moving to South Tyneside I have found it an enchanting and truly magical place. I have always been fascinated by the sea and South Shields beautiful coastline inspired me to write my very first children’s book.
It was my pleasure to share Lily’s story with pupils from Hadrian Primary School and I was honoured that the Mayor of South Tyneside said a few words to support by my new book.
“I strongly believe that one of the greatest gifts we can give children is to encourage them to read for pleasure and I hope youngsters will enjoy the magical journey in Lily, Windy and The Witch: The Journey Begins.”
The group of nine year olds were treated to a reading of the book by the author during the book launch at Arbeia Roman Fort.
The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Alan Smith, said: “The youngsters seemed to be transfixed by the story.
“It is exciting to see a children’s book inspired by South Tyneside and the wider region. It is wonderful that children will recognise the sites Lily visits and maybe inspired to have their own magical adventures.
“Books open up a whole new world of imagination and adventure for children while helping to improve their language skills and their understanding of the world around them.”
Children asked the author questions about the book and were able to see Lily’s magical map.
Miss Christie, from Hadrian Primary School, said: “We were extremely happy to take part in the book launch and to support a local writer who has created wonderful magical story for youngsters to enjoy.
“Our pupils were thrilled to meet Yvonne and to learn more about Lily and her friend’s amazing journey on her magical map across the region.”
The book launch was organised in partnership with Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums (TWAM) who have a busy programme of re-enactment events and living history weekends lined-up for the summer holidays at Arbeia Roman Fort.
Whether youngsters would like to train to be a gladiator or see how they would fare in hunger games, or discover something new at the Arbeia’s archaeology summer schools, Arbeia Roman Fort has lots of history to share with residents and visitors to South Tyneside.
For more information about Lily, Windy and The Witch: The Journey Begins or to purchase copies of the book visit www.lilywindyandthewitch.co.uk.