Local author Sarah Thompson is excited to announce the launch of her debut children's book, 'The Dawnstalkers', an enchanting story inspired by the real-life early morning swimmers of Penarth.

Illustrated by Penarth-based artist Emma S Jones and designed by Vanessa Bowerman from Folio Creates, this stunningly crafted book brings the magic of dawn dippers to life for children and adults alike. 

The Dawnstalkers follows the daily adventures of a group of early risers who take to the waters of Penarth at dawn, with magical characters drawn from real-life figures in the local community.

One standout character, Lene, co-founder of the Dawnstalkers, appears as a serene mermaid who sings a calming call to summon the sea dippers to the shore, creating a mesmerizing world for readers.

She said "I am thrilled to be a character in Sarah's book, especially as a mermaid as I love the sea. I hope my character inspires and encourages young people to be brave and calm when doing things that may be hard for them in life". 

Sarah and Emma's collaboration began at a children's writing workshop hosted at Penarth Library, where they discovered their shared passion for storytelling and creativity. Together, they have created a book that beautifully captures the charm and strong sense of community of Penarth's Dawnstalkers. 

To celebrate the launch, Sarah will be hosting a special sunrise event at Penarth Seafront on Saturday, 21st September from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM, in front of the RNLI station. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to witness the magic of dawn as the sun rises at 6:58 AM, followed by live readings of the book, book signings and dedications, and the chance to meet some of the real-life characters featured in the story, including Captain Grant, Lene the Mermaid, James the Shutterbug & Dexter the Dog. 

Launch Event Highlights:

• Sunrise book readings by Sarah Thompson
• Signed copies for sale from the first 100 printed
• Live illustration with Emma S Jones
• Meet the real-life characters from the story
• Free cookie from Stol Coffee with every book purchase
• Enjoy the vibrant colours of dawn sunrise at 6:58am and take a dip with the Dawnstalkers, or just watch from the shore

Bring your family for a morning filled with storytelling, creativity, and magic. Be among the first to own a signed copy of *The Dawnstalkers*, a perfect keepsake that celebrates the beauty of Penarth and its vibrant community. 

'Dexter the Lifeguard Dog' from the book 'The Dawnstalkers'

📅 Saturday, 21st September 2024 

🕡 6:30 AM – 9:30 AM 

📍 Penarth Seafront, in front of the RNLI station

🌅 Sunrise at 6:58 AM

🍪 Refreshments on sale from Stol Coffee 

Follow the journey of 'The Dawnstalkers' children's book and stay updated on Sarah's website and social media: 

Instagram: Sarah the author - @sarahthompsonbooks 

Website: www.sarahthompsonwrites.com