‘Queenie One Elephant’s Story’ Launch in paperback – Melbourne Zoo 2.00 p.m. Sunday 22nd January, 2012.

Queenie: One Elephant’s Story was launched, the first time, in August 2006 and now the paperback will be launched this Sunday at 2.00 p.m. in the Trail of the Elephants at the Melbourne Zoo by the Hon. Ryan Smith, Minister for the Environment.

I remember being bowled-over by the ‘welcome’ the book received back then and by the interest in Queenie, which has never faltered over the last 5 ½ years. Publisher Maryann Ballantyne of Black Dog Books, once said that every time they received a letter, written in old-fashioned handwriting, they knew it was for me.

Children in schools still want to hear about her and members of seniors’ groups such as Probus and Legacy continue to invite me to talk about Queenie and the writing of the book.

The build-up to Sunday’s launch seems to have taken off again – I have back to back radio and newspaper interviews and interest in the launch is building momentum by the minute.

Over ten years ago now, I fell upon a story I knew, must be told and I was passionate about introducing Queenie to a new generation, as well as stirring memories of those who were lucky enough to ride on her back. Many of these children and adults will be celebrating with me on Sunday.

We will even have a replica of the cake subsidised by the Greensborough Cake Decorating Centre, which is illustrated by Peter Gouldthorpe, so beautifully in the book.

Normal zoo entry applies:                         http://www.zoo.org.au/MelbourneZoo

www.corinnefenton.com www.walkerbooks.com