A theatre producer and performer from Colwyn Bay has had her first children’s book published during lockdown.
Libby Edwards regularly writes stage scripts, but has now branched out into children’s fiction with ‘Trixibelle and the Birthday Spell’, a magical story about a young witch and her extraordinary friends.
This book is the start of what Libby hopes will be many fantastical tales about the adventures of Trixibelle.
Along with Boris the butler and Doris the purple cat, in this first birthday-themed book, Trixibelle goes in search of the missing ingredients for her dress-making spell from her ‘Stitches for Witches’ spell book.
“I wanted to write a story that provides pure escapism for children,” said Libby.
“I remember various stories that have stayed with me from when I was little and they were always tales of magic and adventure.
“Having an independent, fearless female character at the centre of the story was important to me. Hopefully there will be many more adventures of Trixibelle in the future, and who knows - maybe even a stage show!”
The book has received extremely positive reviews across social media, and Libby was delighted to provide an ‘online story time’ for Colwyn Bay primary school, St Joseph’s.
There is also an interactive outdoor storytelling session planned in August at Eirias Park with community group Conwy Connect.
Along with Stuart Loughland, Libby runs Magic Light Productions, who produce the annual Christmas pantomime at Theatr Colwyn.
And after losing all of their work when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, she submitted the book, which was written several years ago, to a variety of publishers.
She was offered a full publishing deal by Olympia Publishers and Bumblebee Books, an imprint of Olympia, publishing bespoke children's literature.
Catherine Jackman’s stunning artwork also brings the magical story to life in a colourful and enchanting way.
‘Trixibelle and the Birthday Spell’ is available online from Waterstones, WH Smith, Foyles, Amazon and directly from the publishers.
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