Mansfield author and illustrator Adrian Beeden’s career is blasting off!

His third children’s book, Alfred In Space, has just been published.

His books — the first two are called Alfred And The Race Car and Alfred At The Fair —  are based on the adventures of a seemingly boring and quiet tortoise who seeks out danger and excitement when no one is around.

Adrian (above) was first inspired to write stories by his daughter, Scarlett, now 14, saying as a child: “Tell me a story with your mouth Dad!” — meaning make up a bedtime story.

He decided to put pen to paper and develop some of his ideas. Adrian was able to illustrate his stories after doodling as a young child, developing his skill during maths lessons at school and then during many ‘boring’ work meetings.

The first result was Alfred And The Race Car, a story about a tortoise that escaped and took part in an exciting race at a local track.

Alfred the tortoise became a real character and the newest member of Adrian’s family!

His books are written in rhyme with bright and colourful illustrations. They are ideal for children up to the age of seven, although in recent school visits Adrian found that children over the age of seven also wanted to read them.

Alfred’s latest adventure sees him blast into space to complete an important mission on the International Space Station.

Adrian (53) said: “The books are a lot of fun to write and draw, and I am thrilled that children other than my own are enjoying them and asking about future stories.”

After retiring from banking last year after 32 years to spend more time with his family — Adrian is married with three children, Mollie (27), Scarlett and three-year-old George — Adrian is now a full-time author.

λFor more information visit  adrianbeedenbooks.com