Christmas Books – Little Dog and the Christmas Wish and Hey Baby, It’s Christmas

November and December for me can only be described as a wonderful whirlwind and it’s been an honour to see Melbourne’s booksellers, social media and the press, take Little Dog to their hearts. As I write this there is a journo from The Age Online on his way here to ask me some questions about the writing and the story behind Little Dog.

I would like to thank particularly Leesa from The Little Bookroom for believing in this book from the moment I told her about it (some long time ago) and for her beautiful window and window launch (photo below). Leesa was also the bookseller for the official book launch in The Block Arcade on October 25 where we celebrated with cake, balloons, Harry and a wonderful launch speech by Melbourne’s Lord Mayor, the Right Honourable, Robert Doyle. (photo below.)

I would also like to thank Susanne from Robinson’s Bookstores for choosing this book to feature as her Christmas display window in all five of her beautiful stores (Robin Cowcher and I managed to visit 4). It was such a treat to see the different ways the windows were decorated. Also thank you to Corrie from My Bookshop in Hawksburn for the wonderful storytime event which included ABA Rep of the Year, Michael Earp who has been a wonderful support.

Then, on Saturday there was the window celebration and Westie parade at Collins/ABC Booksellers in Main Street Croydon, which is where I first discovered the very cute Harry who has supported me at many signings and appearances. It was so wonderful to see Harry joined by such characters as Jock, Wesley, Daisy, Maisy and a couple of Dougals and I would like to thank Mark and Laraine for their fantastic support and allowing me, so generously, to borrow Harry. (Photos below.)

With all this attention on Little Dog I have to keep reminding myself about ‘Hey Baby, It’s Christmas’ for a younger audience and particularly as a special gift for new babies at this beautiful time of year.

It has been an exciting and privileged time and I would like to thank everyone who was involved in the book – from the beginning Maryann Ballantyne, Publisher, Black Dog Books an imprint of Walker Books and Robin Cowcher, who, in her first picture book, created some magic. Thank you.