Author’s books are helping to improve children’s lives

Thankfully, the idea paid off and Corrie’s Capers became an instant hit with Alison now in demand at events, schools, libraries and nurseries where children and adults want to hear more about Corrie and Arran.

With each successive book, Corrie’s Capers is becoming increasingly popular and, once printing and publishing costs are covered, continue to raise vital funds for Mary’s Meals.

The initiative boosted in 2020 when renowned illustrator Tony van Breugel brought the books to life with his charming and eye-catching illustrations.

Tony is well known for his former daily comic strip in the Scottish Daily news and his political cartoons in the Sunday Standard and latterly for his illustrations in children’s books, illustrated maps and other design projects.

The endearing stories of Corrie the Westie, island life, Scottish culture and traditions, combined with Tony’s charming illustrations, have helped to propel the books to a wide audience across Scotland and further afield.

Speaking about reaching the milestone of donating £31,555 to Mary’s Meals so far, Alison still expressed surprise at how well the initiative has turned out. She said: “Never, in my wildest dreams, did I think stories about my precious wee Westie based on Arran would be so popular.

“Heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported this not-for-profit book project since I first launched The Westie Fest way in 2018.”

The latest instalment in the series, Corrie’s Paper Capers, continues to do well in sales and pays tribute to a number of contemporary and relevant happenings on Arran. The latest book retains the same charm and character of its predecessors and remains as alluring and captivating as the original book. All of the books, individually or as a five-book set, are available from local newsagents or from the author at www.westie.scot/ Special discounts are available to nurseries and schools.