Berwick local Pamela Larkin is launching her very first children’s book, titled ‘Skittles the Puppy Gets Adopted’.
Released this month, the book follows the true story of a dog who was adopted by a loving family.
Ms Larkin said Skittles was part of her family for 16 years but died about a year ago.
“The story is about being different but still being wanted and loved,” Ms Larkin said.
“I didn’t tell anyone I was writing this book, not even my kids. I waited until it was complete and released and they were so surprised.”
It has taken Pamela three years to get the book published, which includes her original ideas for the illustrations that feature multicultural characters.
“I started with sketches and sent them through to an illustrator and we worked on it together,” she said.
“I knew in my head what I wanted, even to the hair colour of the characters.”
Ms Larkin has been a fan of poetry since she was a child and knew that she would publish a book one day.
She grew up in the country town of Wangaratta before moving to Melbourne, where she raised two children as a single parent.
Despite struggling financially, Ms Larkin never hesitated to take people in under her roof when they were in need and has spent her life helping others.
Skittles the Puppy Gets Adopted is most suitable for children aged two to 12 and is available through Dymocks, Amazon, Booktopia and other outlets.
Ms Larkin already has a plan for the next book, which will follow all the funny antics Skittles gets up to in his new home.
