The latest book in the popular Manx Bedtime Stories Project has been released across the island, with proceeds going towards the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

‘ORANGE: Sedrick the Manx Basking Shark!’ is the seventh book in the series, which has previously raised more than £15,000 for island charities.

Written by children’s author and project founder Rob Cowley and illustrated by Abulia Creative Productions, the book tells a heart-warming story of friendship, courage and teamwork, while exploring the issue of plastic pollution in our seas.

The story is based on real science and combines an educational message with the magic of a bedtime tale.

Rob said: ‘My granddaughter insisted that I write “ORANGE” so that I had all the colours of the rainbow song in my magical world. And despite being an accidental author, I'm delighted that the project has so far raised more than £15,000 for worthy Manx charities.’

Copies of the book are available from Bridge Bookshops, museum shops, The Book Company, Manx Wildlife Trust and Mostly Manx.

The project is also inviting the island’s next generation of storytellers and illustrators to take part in its 2026 Creative Writing Competition.

Open to young people aged six to 13, the competition encourages entrants to create original stories inspired by kindness, friendship and caring for the planet, with a touch of Manx magic.

Entries are open until the end of September, allowing schools to participate as class projects.

Rob said: ‘Whether children love writing, drawing or both, this is a fantastic opportunity to be creative, work together and perhaps even see their work published. I can’t wait to read the wonderful adventures they’ll dream up.’

Every story selected for publication will receive a prize, while awards will also be given for the five best illustrations.

Entries created using artificial intelligence will not be eligible.

The competition is supported by Dandara. Further information is available on Rob's Facebook page, with posters displayed in schools, libraries, bookshops and museums across the island.