by Rebecca Hannant
An author has launched a new children’s book with half of profits going to Hornsea Inshore Rescue.
Last month, writer and radio host Gavin Wynne, of Beverley, launched his first self-published book titled The Adventures of Foggy Goggles.
Illustrated by West Yorkshire-based artist Molly Paveley, it is a heartwarming adventure story packed with facts about the ocean and planet for young readers.
The book started as a personal challenge for Gavin, who likes to set himself a new creative goal each year.
Rather than relying on the typical silly humour found in many children’s stories, Gavin wanted to explore something different and opted to create a story that inspires children to help the environment including beach cleans, planting trees and more.
The book also features some of his family members playing the characters, including his father, father-in-law, and dog Scruff.
Gavin said: “Every year I like to take on something new. I do a radio show on Beverley FM, and I’ve done events in the past. I’ve written scripts before and entered competitions, mainly sitcom writing, but I’ve always enjoyed writing.
“So, I thought I’d combine my sense of fun with my interest in storytelling and create a children’s book.
“I didn’t want to make just another book full of jokes about farts and bogies. I wanted to write something meaningful.
“I’m quite interested in the environment, so I wanted to create a story that introduces environmental themes without being preachy.
“The story itself is about a young girl who loves swimming. Her granddad gives her a pair of goggles that take her on magical adventures, though it’s left up to the reader whether the magic is real or in her imagination.
“She explores the sea, learns about marine life, and helps animals along the way. At heart, it’s also about her relationship with her granddad.
“At the end of the book, there are pages that encourage children to take small steps to help the environment like beach cleans, reducing plastic, planting things – without overwhelming them.
“I wanted children to feel empowered, not frightened by environmental issues.”
Gavin launched the project through Kickstarter, raising just under £1,500, which covered the printing costs. He now hopes to get the book in as many bookshops as possible.
He added: “The support was brilliant. I even offered special signed editions with some gifts for people who pledged £100, and four people did, which was lovely.
“After the crowdfunding finished, I had to send out all the books. Now I’m focusing on keeping momentum going, approaching local independent shops.
“I’d love to eventually get into Waterstones, but I’m building up gradually. I’ve also had some nice support online. Alastair Humphreys, the adventurer, bought a copy and gave it a shout-out.”
Gavin wanted to share the profits of the book with independent lifeboat charity Hornsea Inshore Rescue, which relies solely on donations.
He added: “I usually take part in their New Year’s Day swim fundraiser, though it was cancelled last year. I think they do incredible work, and I wish they were government-funded. I went to them and said that 50 per cent of the profit from each book will go directly to them.”
The book is available through Gavin’s website, gavinwynnesworld.co.uk, for £7.99.