FIRST-time author Helen Wilson is inviting young story fans to the launch of her adventures of Merry the mouse.

Single mum Helen, 53, from Knutsford, has published Merry and Her Three Wishes, a beautifully-illustrated book which is aimed at children up to the age of seven.

Helen, who is also a folk singer, will be launching the book at The Tea Room in King Street, Knutsford, where she works, on Sunday, February 24, at 5.30pm.

“I have always written, but have never had the courage to put it out there,” said Helen, whose children are aged 15 and 22.

“I am so excited about the launch of the book, and would love it to do really well. The illustrations by Annie Rose, who comes from Lytham St Anne’s, are brilliant.

“The story is about a wondrous little mouse called Merry who gets blown away on a storm from her family and is taken in by a family of shrews.

“Children can join called Merry on her first adventure, as she makes three seemingly impossible wishes that come true.

“Meet the fairy princess as she is preparing to marry the prince, and be enthralled by the amazing woodland creatures that you will meet along the way.

“Be in awe of Ernest the owl, and a daring rescue, as well as an emotional reunion of lost family.

“The book is a simple and fun way to encourage children from an early age to have faith that it is possible to achieve their dreams, that mindfulness and listening to the whisperings of the heart are positive, and that with love at the core life can be a magical adventure.

“This book can be either a great bedtime story or an aid to improve a child’s reading skills.”

The launch will include reading of excerpts from the book and activities for children, and Helen thanked The Tea Room for allowing her to hold the event there.

Copies of the book are available at The Tea Room and Techno Type in King Street, as well as via Amazon.

One of the reviews of the book on Amazon said: “The illustrations are out of this world, and the story is a beautifully-written genuine classic I hope will be Xmas Eve reading in our house for many years to come. Great positive message. The pictures are nice enough to be framed.”

Helen has released two albums, Dare and In The Words.