A former beauty industry executive from Essex is now winning admirers in her new career as a children’s author.
Christine Dennis spent more than three decades as a sales and education executive for Estee Lauder before taking the leap of faith into writing.
The Basildon-based author now regularly publishes books and YouTube videos for youngsters on top of a part-time teaching position.
With her latest release, Brian the Pirate, yet again attracting a string of five-star reviews, Christine has no regrets about changing occupations.
She said: “Often at family parties I would spend my time entertaining the younger children with stories and games.
“On one occasion, it was late and I decided to tell them a story about a boy who was not great at doing as he was told, often showing off, never sharing and throwing tantrums when losing games – this had all their attention, including some of the adults.
“Children tend to love hearing about someone else that’s naughty or misbehaving.
“I chose the name Brian as I couldn’t think of anyone that they knew already with that name.”
Christine’s series of Brian books is leading to her building up a loyal readership with previous titles, Brian’s Giant Cupcake and Brian’s School Trip, receiving critical acclaim.
Brian the Pirate has been described by reviewers as being ‘a lovely book’, ‘excellent’ and a ‘brilliant read’.
Fellow critic Mandy Hammond stated: “My grandchildren had loved the previous books in the series, and this one did not disappoint.”
As with the previous books in the series, Brian the Pirate deals with behavioural issues, taking an imaginative look at dealing with bullying in and around school.
As well as an engaging storyline and delightful illustrations, Christine’s latest release also has a post-read quiz and an accompanying YouTube video.
Christine added: “All my stories tend to cover a learning curve for children and include questions at the end to help their understanding of the story and lessons learnt.
“Brian The Pirate deals with bullying – a delicate topic that I believe needs consistent reference to in all schools and is now part of the national curriculum!
“His best friend Marvin, a shy child, has influenced some better behaviour whilst Brian’s love of pranks and friendship has increased Marvin’s confidence.
“In this unlikely partnership, they both find the confidence and right behaviour to confront the bullying in a very productive way, to the shock of everyone at the fancy dress party including the parents.”
For more information, visit Amazon and search for Christine Dennis where the paperback and Kindle versions of Brian the Pirate are available.
