Lindfield’s Chris Best and his daughter Ashleigh are excited to announce the publication of their first children’s book. ‘Giganta Moles - A New Beginning’ was conceived on weekend car journeys when Ashleigh was a very timid and shy eight-years-old. Chris used to drive her home after ‘Dad weekends’. One occasion, passing a field with a large pile of soil in it, Chris asked Ashleigh what she thought had created the mound – she thought for a few moments and then quietly, but confidently said ‘Giganta Moles’… and so these extraordinary mythical creatures were born!

Subsequently, over following months and years together they created adventures for the Giganta Moles. Chris promised that one day he would write down the story of the Giganta Moles and that Ashleigh (who loved to draw) would create the illustrations. It was while Ashleigh was travelling for a year in Australia, that Chris started penning the tale and, on her return, he presented her with the first draft.

The book is a charming, heart-warming story of adventure and the possibilities for harmony and cooperation between animals and humans. The book is aimed at children of primary school age, in the 7-9-year-old group generally, however, it is a wonderfully easy read for parents and grandparents to read to younger children with beautiful illustrations dotted through the book. ‘Giganta Moles - A New Beginning’ is published in paperback by Austin Macauley and is available to buy online now. You can also follow the pair’s journey on social media (@thegigantamoles).