Belmont children’s author Kristine Fitzgerald was off with the fairies until the COVID-19 lockdown helped her overcome writer’s block.
After writing a self-help book and entering a few writing competitions, the Deakin University maths lecturer came up with a children’s book idea “just for fun” last year.
“When I went to write it, I couldn’t get started at all,” the avid novel-lover told the Independent.
“I thought, ‘I’m going to put this aside and I’ll come back to it one day’.”
But when the first COVID-19 lockdown began in March, Kristine discovered she had more time to put into writing The Ring of Toadstools.
“I was writing a chapter a day and had done it in a few months,” she said.
“I think many of us have found that having fewer commitments this year has allowed us to have a bit more downtime.”
The book, which Kristine launched this month, follows the story of shy eight-year-old Annie, who has trouble making friends.
“One day, while walking by the creek, she meets a fairy named Tia,” she said.
“They get to know each other and a whole new world of fun, friendship, singing, games and magic opens up for Annie.”
But when a flock of cockatoos attack, Annie must find a way to save the fairies’ toadstool community.
“I hope this story helps children feel that they are not alone,” Kristine said.
“Everyone gets lonely sometimes and we all have our struggles, but just like Annie, we can always find a way through them.”
Available at: inspiringpublishers.com
