Border collie Misty inspires Kingswinford author's books
A border collie named Misty has inspired a series of children's books with the next tale due to be published later this year.
Dave Robertson, who lives in Hinksford, near Kingswinford, put pen to paper around three years ago while recuperating from a heart attack.
The former engineer had always enjoyed writing and using his beloved 11-year-old dog Misty as his inspiration he decided to start the first in a series of books.
Dognapped, about a quartet of dogs and their narrowboat misadventures, was a finalist in the national People's Book Prize.
Although it didn't win, the 61-year-old said he was delighted just to be named a finalist.
"I was one of 12 finalists for Best Children's Book in this years People's Book Prize held down in London.
"It's a big event so I was pleased just to be nominated. It meant a lot that I was put forward for it," said Mr Robertson, who is chairman of the Castle Writers group which meets at Dudley Library.
Dognapped was followed by In the Doghouse, published in January, and follows Misty and her friends as they try to find German Shepherd Rascal, who has outgrown his kennel, a new home.
While the third book, On the Dog Walk, will be published on November 28 and sees the dogs go on another adventure. The stories are aimed at seven to 11-year-olds.
The author, whose pen name is David J Robertson, said: "I've always written but it started seriously after the heart attack. I enjoy it and use Misty as my inspiration. I like writing and dogs so it's nice to combine the two."
As well as children's books and short stories, he has also written newsletters for the Dogs R Us Agility Club where he and Misty attend classes every Sunday.
On the Dog Walk, illustrated by Ian R Ward, will be published by Troubador. For more information see www.mistybooks.net
