Clevedon author unveils first book in 13 years of preparation

Published:
06:00 16 June 2022

A Clevedon children’s author has unveiled his first book based on a story he used to tell his children over 10 years ago.

Chris Genge is a project manager at construction company Harrison Evolution, but has now written his first history book thanks to “a friend and some free time during lockdown”.

The 30-page book centers on a flatulent pig named Jeff who dislikes vegetables and dreams of flying.

Chris said he wanted to focus the book on getting kids to eat healthy and lead active lives.

The 50-year-old said: “Jeff has always dreamed of flying but because he only eats junk food he’s just too heavy to fly.

“One day a vet visiting the farm told him that he now had to go on an all-vegetable diet. At first Jeff refused and said he didn’t like vegetables, but eventually he gave in and found they didn’t. aren’t so bad after all.

“He then wakes up to find his dream of flying has come true and he’s floating in the sky because the vegetables have caused a buildup of gas which causes him to float around the place farting.

“Eventually, after learning to control his flight, he ends up saving the day – all because he ate his vegetables.”

Many of Chris’ fond childhood memories are incorporated into the book, including a scene where Jeff flies over his late father Malcolm’s garage at Chew Stoke.

Chris added: “This book was written during free time on holiday but it’s a story I’ve told my two boys, Daniel and Max, since they were toddlers.

“I always struggled in school, I struggled with reading and writing, but for me to be able to get this story into physical form that’s been in my head for 13 years is amazing.

“I would like to thank my friend who started Clueless Publishing who helped me get this story off the ground.

“The response I’ve had from the kids has already been amazing. I just want the kids to enjoy having the book read to them while promoting healthy eating.

“A sequel to Jeff may also be on the way, along with two more books.”

Jeff the Flying Pig is for kids ages two to six and can be purchased from Stationery House, The Triangle, or directly from Chris’ Instagram page at @jeff_the_flying_pig.