Rye author, Sue Mackay, makes hew debut as a writer of children’s novels this month, with the publication of her first book for under-tens, the intriguingly titled Dustumust, published on 26th February by The Book Guild, Lewes, East Sussex.
Dustumust is a bedbug with attitude. Discovered living under Timmy’s bed, Dustumust’s presence is given away by his loud sneezing caused by an allergy to dust, which unfortunately is part of his not too salubrious diet. Timmy solves the bedbugs life long problem by making a pair of glasses to prevent the dust getting into his eyes, so arresting the allergy. From this kind act the two become firm friends and set off on a series of hilarious adventures.
Martello Book Shop in Rye, 26 The High Street, will be launching this new children’s adventure book on Saturday March 13th at 3pm. All are welcome.
Dustumust is also taking off in Canterbury at Methvens Book Shop, 28 The High Street on Saturday 28th February again at 3pm.
Mother of three, Sue has lived in the Playden area for the past twenty one years. She ran, as a qualified instructress, her own riding establishment, Oak Tree Riding School, until M.E forced her to retire from this venture. Working with animals and children inspired her to write numerous stories about that perennial children’s favourite – horses and riding, with many amusing incidents which always occur when children, animals and adults are combined.
Sue also ran a catering business, based at Rye Auction Gallery in partnership with her daughter Sally. Other members of the family have now taken this over.
Asked what gave her the idea for Dustumust, Sue Says “I can remember at School in Canterbury, we used to draw these weird creatures which we called “Hermes” – hairy things with two legs – and from that I thought of bedbugs and this story of Dustumust, a bedbug, just seemed to grow in my mind from there. People ask me the age group I intended it for and I suppose its really for 5-9 year olds, but adults have read it and laughed, too, so I think its really for anyone of any age with a sense of humour.
Living in Playden, Rye with her three cats, Minnie, Thomas and Gizmo, Sue says Dustumust is some
thing of a family affair, with black and white illustrations provided by her daughter, local librarian, Sally Preston.
Sue’s second children’s book, on the theme of school bullying, with a new angle on how to deal with this aggressive behaviour that permeates society, is already written and awaiting publication. Book two of Dustumust is also on its way.
Dustumust is priced £8.95 and is published by The Book Guild. It will be released on 26th February.
“Rye’s Own ” March 2004
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