How One Childhood Memory Helped to Inspire A Children’s Book.

Those of you who have followed me, and have read my articles about “Snugs” will know of the main story behind my Children’s Series, and, in particular, Book One, which is almost there!

I have already talked about how the magical optical illusion of the “Isle of Wight Polar Bear,” inspired me to write my new Children’s Series.

But, perhaps, equally important to the genesis of “Snugs,” was a craft activity I did with my late Art Teacher dad, (as he was then,) at the age of around six or seven.

I remember asking how to draw a polar bear, and my dad got some lino, and showed me how to make a lino* cut picture.

I remember, we both worked at an old table in the garage. I first practised with a potato stamp, and when dad could see I had the hang of it, I cut the picture of a snow bear into the lino, pressed it into the ink, and then onto a sheet of paper.

Little did I know that decades later, “Snugs” would reappear, larger than life, enchanting, and drawn - much better - I might add, by my very accomplished illustrator!

When you do creative activities with your child, you may spark a memory in them, that will develop into something more, and one that will last forever!

* short for linoleum, a common flooring material.