Merging elements of epic fantasy, science fiction and some of the colourful characters from Manx folklore together, local author Lee Browne has created a series of fantasy books that she hopes will capture the imaginations of young readers, and also encourage them to think about the world around them.

This week sees the release of ’Magnus and the Jewelled Book of the Universe’, the first book in the series.

The epic tale, written as a thrilling adventure for children under 10 years old, sees Magnus, an alien from another Earth in a different dimension, where humans haven’t evolved and dinosaurs still roam.

Magnus and his mentor Marlo, a disillusioned old wizard, have to try and save their home planet from the greedy villain Murdamond.

He is helped along by three pet dinosaurs, a cast of fantasy creatures and a mysterious Jewelled Book that has a life of its own.

Lee, a teacher who lives in Braddan, said that she was inspired to write the tale by her then-eight year old son, Edward, after she struggled to find a suitable book for him to read.

’He avoided the larger volumes available, because they were intimidating and overwhelming,’ said Lee.

’He preferred topics like Dinosaurs and Space.’

To help create Magnus’ fantasy world she turned to the Manx fairy stories she loved as a child.

’I love the Manx fairy tales,’ she said.

’Often, as a child, I begged my parents to tell the story of the Buggane as we passed St. Trinian’s in the car on windy nights. Or to tell of the Moddey Dhoo when we parked the car by Fenella beach.

’The stories sent thrills up my spine and they are unforgettable.

’My son also enjoys hearing the Manx Folk Tales. He loves to hear about the Mooinjer Veggey, always remembering to wave to them when we drive over the Fairy Bridge. For me, it’s the myths that give the island its mystical tingle and I began to wonder if I could weave these characters into my books.’

There is a theme of climate change running throughout the book, and Lee said that she hopes that, as funny and as exciting the story is, younger readers would be encouraged to consider the delicate environment around them, and how they can protect it.

’Climate change features because the books allow me to compare an Earth unaffected by human activity,’ said Lee.

’The stories are designed to be different and this is not the main theme, but I am concerned about the health of our planet and want to help to protect it as much as I can for future generations. Animals and nature matter to me.

’I was born and raised on an island surrounded by stunning wildlife and breathtaking natural beauty, so I hope my books will make children think about their environment in a positive way.’

’Magnus and the Jewelled Book of the Universe’ is out now, published by Matador books.

The second book in the series will be released in 2018, and will be entitled ’Magnus and the Lady of the Mountain, to be followed by the series-ending book, ’Magnus and Manannan’s Gleam’.

by Mike Wade

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