A children’s author from Stroud has launched a new book inspired by the area and is offering 10 free copies to local primary schools.

The Guinea Pig Gardeners, written by Caroline Pankhurst, introduces children to the joys of gardening, the environmental needs of our time, and to looking after nature.

Caroline, who attended Callowell Primary School and Stroud Girls’ High School, created the book with Stroud’s wildlife in mind and hopes it will aid children in discovering nature during lockdown.

“I was inspired by my friends’ guinea pigs and all the squirrels I see doing acrobatics on bird feeders, as well as all the other wonders of nature around us here in Stroud,” said Caroline, who now lives in London but is spending lockdown back in her hometown.

“I hope that my book will encourage children to discover nature and do what they can to look after it. By giving my book to local teachers, I hope that it will bring some happiness to their class at this challenging time.”

The book is aimed at five to eight-years-olds and the author envisages teachers reading it to their class or giving the book as a prize for a nature-based competition.

The guinea pigs in the story grow their own food, plant flowers for the bees, drink mint tea and engage the help of a squirrel who can get into bird feeders.

Many of the characters have plant names, and parents can enjoy botanical references such as Rosemary Rabbit having a good memory (as the rosemary plant gives this benefit).

Some of Caroline’s ideas come from her work at the South London Botanical Institute as a horticultural therapist for Thrive, as well as her experience in community gardens.

The hardback book is illustrated by Caroline’s friend and artist, Maude Smith.

Primary school teachers who want a free copy of the book should contact Caroline at guineapiggardeners@gmail.com by February 15.

Other people are welcome to buy books for £10 plus postage and packaging using the same details.