Shrewsbury author's first book inspired by three-year-old granddaughter

Daniel Treherne, from Shrewsbury, has been running his own business as a painter and decorator for nearly 40 years.

But during that time, he has also been pursuing a hobby of writing short stories, which has now turned into his first children's book –Stephen The Spider.

The 59-year-old said: "The inspiration for the book was my three-year-old granddaughter Eres who loves spiders if she saw one, would try and pick it up, which is very unusual for a child.

"The Spider was inspired by someone I know called Steve who hasn’t got many teeth. So the story is about a little girl called Eres who befriends a spider who has lost his teeth.

"I sent the story to a publisher in September 2021 and just before Christmas, the publisher's offered me a publishing deal for Stephen The Spider.

"It has now been released and is available to buy. I can't believe it. I never thought what started as a hobby would see me end up as a published author.

"It's not what you expect when you become a grandad but Eres is a very inspiring little girl."

The book is suitable for ages three to six years and has been published by Olympia Publishers of London.

It is now available to buy from Waterstones, Amazon and online bookstores, and some local independent shops.

Commenting on the illustrations, Daniel said: "I wanted a family member to do them who is amazing at illustrations... but she had too much work at college at the time and couldn’t commit.

"Hopefully she will be available if I get a deal for another book. I have completed three other children’s stories, so hopefully, if the publishers want more of my work I’m ready when they are. Fingers crossed."

Some readings and book signings are being planned.

Follow Stephen the Spider on social media via Facebook and Instagram @stephenthepider to find out about forthcoming dates and times.