Grandfather, 80, inspired by grandson to write his first sci-fi children’s book

Former magistrate Mike Wall has published his first children's book, at the age of 80, inspired by his nine-year-old grandson Oscar. The Amber Moons is aimed at eight to 12-year-olds.

When the Alphabet Planets were destroyed by a Weather Bomb, those who escaped journeyed to the Amber Moons, a little known constellation of stars deep in space.

They settled on a small uninhabited moon to build a new community. However, to survive these brave people had to face and defeat the feared Green Aliens. These were ruthless space pirates who had, for many lunar moons, terrorised the smaller stars. These cruel beings fought, stole and bullied without mercy.

Space battles were fought in the face of a powerful solar storm.

Could their bravery and superior flying skills win the day even though they were badly outnumbered?

Mike, who lives in Tilehurst and spent 24 years as a magistrate on the Reading Bench was appointed the MBE for his services to education in 2018.

He said he had been a fan of sci fi for long time, but his interest was rekindled by his grandchildren. “During lockdown an exchange of videos between Oscar and me gave birth to the book,” said Mike.

It took around two years from idea to publishing, which he said he enjoyed, even if the process could at times be stressful and time consuming.

The illustrations were brought to life by professional illustrator Sarah Peacock from Mike’s original sketches.

“Of course Oscar loves it - it’s his book and he and his sister feature in it.”

The Amber Moons (ISBN 9781399948159) is available from Amazon and Waterstones online or direct from Mike (Contact mikewalldm@gmail.com) at £9.90.