Thursday , March 28 2024

Turtle Trouble – An important message for us all

Zakynthos Informer have been lucky to be able to speak with a UK Author whose inspiration for his new book was from a chance encounter with a turtle. Whilst it wasn’t in Zakynthos, the experience inspired him create a book that highlights the environmental factors of the vulnerable species, and the problems we all face with plastic pollution and rubbish. The book has been supported by a number of leading environmental groups including, Ocean First, Going Coastal, Leave no Trace, REEF, The Safina Centre, RECOVER and Recycle More.

So what is Turtle Trouble about?

“Sheldon is an adventurous young turtle and is always swimming too far off and getting into trouble. Find out what happens when he gets swept out to sea! This book conveys a powerful message to young children and adults about the growing global problem of ocean waste and plastic pollution in our seas and on our beaches. I hope this inspires and encourages you to do your bit for the environment by recycling or joining a beach cleaning group.” 

Interview with the author about Turtle Trouble

Q: Welcome to Zakynthos Informer Stuart. As the island has a designated marine park for turtles, we’re very excited about your book Turtle Trouble, can you tell us more about it?

A: Many years ago I had the pleasure of a chance encounter with a turtle whilst swimming off the beach in Maui! I couldn’t believe how graceful and beautiful it was. I later went on a boat trip to see them at a cleaning station and was blessed with another underwater encounter (from a safe distance so’s not to disturb them). They’re such amazing creatures and we need to protect them before they become endangered.

Q: The book has some very strong and important messages about turtles and the environment, why did you choose to write about this?

A: Many years later I got into writing and decided to write about this, as the oceans and marine life are really suffering from pollution and it’s a huge problem which needs addressing.

Q: Is Turtle Trouble aimed solely at children, if so why did you choose to write a children’s book?

A: I wanted to target young readers and their parents in the hope that the youth of today would start to understand what’s going on and also encourage them to help do their bit, in any small way, to help save our oceans and protect the marine life. There’s a few books about turtles out there, but nothing aimed at the younger readers (3-6yrs), so I saw an opportunity.

Q: Do you think it’s important to educate children, as well as adults, about vulnerable species and the environment?

A: Definitely. The children are our future, so the earliest we can make them aware of these issues the better. My book is a beautifully illustrated rhyming short story which both children and adults alike will love reading, any time, but it carries such an important message that I hope will resonate with its readers.

Q: Will there be more Turtle Trouble books, or will it just be this one?

A: I’m not planning a sequel, but I have other stories written and ready to publish, about all sorts of subjects. My first book “The Witches’ Tea Party” was more fun, but still carries an important underlying message about friendship.

Q: If anyone wants to get the book, or learn more, where can they find you?

A: Both books are available on Amazon and I also sell signed copies with free cute bookmarks, which can be ordered by contacting me direct through Facebook, Instagram, my website or email. I will also be reading and selling the books at schools, nurseries and libraries. I love seeing the children’s reactions and answering all their questions at the end too!

You can find out more about the book on my Website, Facebook, or Instagram account by searching StuartMcDonaldAuthor

Biography of Stuart McDonald:

I’m originally from the Lake District, England, where my family still live. I studied Graphic Design at Harrogate Art College and Middlesex University in London. My first job took me to Trowbridge, Wiltshire where I was tasked with re-designing the local paper. I’ve been in Trowbridge ever since and have worked for several different design and marketing companies over the years. I’m now freelancing and working a few days a week at a calendar company, writing books inbetween.

I have a lovely daughter Isla, who inspired me to start writing. After receiving several poems from me, my wonderful girlfriend Paula told me that “you need to do something with that talent.” So here we are!

“The Witches’ Tea Party” was my first offering into the published world, swiftly followed by “Turtle Trouble”, but I’ve penned a few more, which I am planning to publish, if this one goes as well as it already appears to be! Watch this space folks!

When I’m not writing, I love adventures in my vw campervan, mountain biking and climbing. I like to keep active!

My dream would be to become a successful published author full time and give up my day job. I also have some other crazy plans such as getting into voice overs, but the world’s not ready for that yet!

I hope you enjoy my books!

 

Zakynthos Informer: Thank you so much for joining us at the Zakynthos Informer to tell us about Turtle Trouble. It’s a very inspiring book, with such an important message for all of us, but especially children, thanks for sharing it with us and we wish you well with it in the future!

About Chrissie Parker

Chrissie Parker joined the Zakynthos Informer Team in 2014. Chrissie’s first experience of the island was a combined birthday and wedding celebration, in true Zakynthian style. Since then she has been able to combine her love of the island, including its incredible history, tradition and culture, with her love of writing.

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