McKellar resident begins new chapter in publishing

WALLACE Lodge resident and children’s author Bette Pitman is proving it’s never too late to chase your dreams and take up creative endeavours.

The tech-savvy great-grandmother has written and illustrated three short stories in her self-published book The Adventures of Claude the Cloud.

Mrs Pitman said she had the idea to write a story several years ago while staying in hospital.

“I was bored to tears and I looked out the window at the clouds and saw some shapes like faces, so I scribbled down the first story,” she said.

“After that I was looking for someone to illustrate it, but it was hard to find someone with the right style at an affordable price.

“I’ve always liked writing and painting, so I decided to do the pictures myself.

“Once I got started painting it got better as I went along.

“I’ve always loved kids so I did it for my great-grandchildren, but everyone else has said they liked it.

“They all want me to sign it.”

Having already self-published with a Melbourne-based printer, Mrs Pitman said living in a residential aged care facility would not stop her pursuit of a publishing deal.

“The book has given me something to work towards. My legs have deteriorated but I’ve still got my mind.

“I’ve got my computer; I’m on Facebook and emails, so I’m never bored by myself.”

Anyone interested in purchasing the book can contact the Wallace Lodge at the McKellar Centre.