A fresh addition to children’s literature has hit the shelves. Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie has unveiled their latest publication, ‘Jack, Thomas and the Hovercraft.’
The book is the sequel in a delightful series about the escapades of two boys, Jack and Thomas, penned by Graham Lelliott (pictured with his family above). This instalment unfolds the story of two adventurous brothers. Their family day out brings them joy, especially when it involves an exhilarating ride on a hovercraft.
Hovertravel’s enthusiastic support
Loretta Lale, the head of commercial at Hovertravel, expressed her excitement.
“We always enjoy reading stories which involve our hovercraft and we are keen supporters of local authors too.”
Hovertravel didn’t just cheer from the sidelines; they actively participated. Loretta mentioned,
“Our team provided photographs for the illustrators to work from and helped Graham to ensure all the facts were accurate.”
What truly touched her was Lelliott’s ability to depict the thrill,
“Most of all, we loved the way Graham captured the excitement that we see in our customers who are flying with us for their first time.”
From technician to storyteller
Beyond his literary pursuits, Graham serves the community as a Leakage Technician. He’s responsible for surveying areas in the south, finding burst underground pipes, and maintaining the general water network.
Speaking to News OnTheWight, Graham explained his inspiration.
“Having written my first children’s book ‘Jack, Thomas and the Miniature Railway,’ I wanted to continue the Jack and Thomas theme whereby their adventures continue.”
He found intrigue in hovercrafts, having journeyed on them multiple times.
“Being based on family days out I decided to create something a little different, something that hasn’t been done before to my knowledge and that is write a children’s story including a big passenger hovercraft and in particular how it works.”
He delved deeper into his personal experience.
“Once my wife and I had two boys we introduced them to these fascinating machines, so much so that the boys absolutely love going on the hovercraft.”
Passionate about the mechanics of a hovercraft
Graham’s intent goes beyond just narrating a tale. He wants young readers to grasp the mechanics and wonders of a hovercraft, from its ability to traverse land and water to its rapid speed.
Hovertravel, with its long-standing history since 1965, was instrumental in this book.
Graham added,
“What I’m really pleased with is I’ve had fantastic support from Hovertravel.”
Their service, recognised as the world’s longest-running commercial hovercraft operator, has indeed been a massive boon for this project.
Future adventures on the horizon
But this isn’t the end. Graham hinted at the future of Jack and Thomas.
“I hope to continue the Jack and Thomas children’s book theme with possibly visits to a castle, windmill, old fort, football match, countryside walk, etc.”
Grab your copy
For those eager to join Jack and Thomas on their hovercraft adventure, the book is readily available from the publishers.
In a special treat for readers, Hovertravel will host a prize draw competition throughout half-term. Lucky winners could walk away with one of eight copies, all autographed by Graham Lelliott himself.
For further information and a chance to win, be sure to visit the Hovertravel Website.
