Explore the heartwarming tales of a toddler and her talking animal friends
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In the picturesque setting of Mintlaw, Aberdeenshire, a toddler’s affection for the animals on her family’s hobby farm has blossomed into a delightful children’s book. Jackie Horne, the mother and author, has recently published A Little Girl’s Adventures at Windfold Farm: The Tales of Jessie and Her Talking Animals, inspired by the imaginative bedtime stories she created for her two-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Jessie.
The inspiration behind the story
Jackie, who grew up in Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, found herself weaving tales of adventure and friendship that captivated her daughter. After a year of illustrations and hard work, she finally brought her stories to life in book form.
“What makes this book more interesting is that the animals are real,” Jackie shared, highlighting the unique charm of her narrative. The book invites readers to join Jessie on magical adventures with her talking animal friends, making it a captivating read for children and parents alike.
Exploring the wonders of Windfold Farm
Set against the backdrop of Windfold Farm, the story introduces a whimsical world where donkeys, alpacas, cows, sheep, dogs, and even a mischievous cat can converse. The narrative encourages young readers to follow Jessie as she explores hidden gardens, chases fireflies, and embarks on thrilling treasure hunts with her extraordinary companions. The enchanting Scottish countryside, with its shimmering lochs and fields of wildflowers, serves as a vibrant canvas for Jessie’s adventures, showcasing the beauty of nature through the eyes of a child.
Jackie and her partner, Martin Philip, run the hobby farm at Skelmuir, where their love for animals has led them to create a sanctuary for rare and unusual breeds. Their home, purchased in late 2019, is now a haven for Jacob, Zwartbles, and Valais sheep, along with Highland cows, donkeys, pigs, alpacas, ducks, and geese. The farm has also gained popularity through a viral music video, and Jackie keeps her growing audience engaged with updates on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Published and illustrated by GB Authors, A Little Girl’s Adventures at Windfold Farm is available in both paperback and e-book formats through Amazon, Apple Books, and IngramSpark. The book’s description on Amazon captures its essence: “Each story is infused with warmth, laughter, and the magic of childhood. Ideal for children who dream of adventures and love animals, this book celebrates the wonders of nature and the simple joys of farm life through engaging, heartwarming narratives.” Jackie expresses her enthusiasm for storytelling, stating, “I could probably write loads more books,” hinting at the potential for future adventures.
