A DEBUT children’s author from Braintree is preparing to meet young readers at a major event this summer, following the success of her first published book.
“I started pencilling down ideas for the book on an aircraft coming back from Borneo in September 2023,” she said.
“I signed my contract November of that year – my book was finally published in the January of 2025.
"This is my first book I have ever written, small stories I wrote in infant school don’t count!”
The story follows a young orangutan named Manu, who sets off on an adventure with his brother Kami in search of the finest fruit in the biggest tree.
Along the way, they meet a sun bear named Cotie, forming friendships that help shape their journey.
Michelle added: “The book is about a small orangutan called Manu who goes on an adventure with his brother Kami to find the finest fruit in the biggest tree
"Along the way he makes friends with a sunbear called Cotie. The story is about family and friendship.”
Since its release, Michelle has been visiting schools, nurseries and childcare settings across Essex, where the book has been warmly received.
“It was released in January 2025 and I have been visiting numerous schools, nurseries, childminders and receiving positive feedback,” she said.
Next, she will be taking part in the Great Dunmow Bookfest on June 13 in Great Dunmow, a brand-new event set to transform the town centre into a celebration of books.
“The whole of the High Street will be turned into a bookshop with the High Street being closed and the event going from 12pm to 5pm” Michelle said.
She will be based in the Saracens Head Hotel alongside other children’s authors, while additional writers will be located in shops along the High Street.
The event is free to attend, and will take place at to The Rowena Day Centre and Dunmow Day Centre off Chequers Lane.
“I, along with some other children’s authors will be based in The Saracens Head Hotel whilst other author’s will be based in the local shops along the High Street,” she added.
Looking ahead to the day, Michelle says she is especially excited as it marks a milestone in her journey as an author.
“I am feeling very excited about this event as it will be the first of it’s kind and the first BIG event I have done since the release of Manu the Orangutan,” she said.
She is also hoping to meet young readers and share her story in person.
“I hope that the children will enjoy coming along to visit me and hearing all about Manu the Orangutan – I will be happy to sign their book personally for them to,” she said.
The event will also feature a variety of family-friendly activities.
“There will be crafts and activities to be had on the day also – any support for this event would be amazing,” she added.
For more information, visit Talliston.com/great-dunmow-bookfest.
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