Wellington Authors Launch Children's Stories CD

In a first of its kind, a group of local authors have come together to record a collection of children’s stories on CD, with a distinctly Wellington flavour.

The brainchild of Wellington City Libraries staff, Whispers in the Wind is aimed at 5-12 year-olds and will be available for sale from 27 November at an introductory price of $15. It can also be borrowed from any Wellington City library.

The CD features 10 Wellington children's authors: Joy Cowley, Janice Marriott, Fleur Beale, Rachel Hayward, Barbara Else, Barbara Murison, Kevin Boon, Philippa Werry, Denis Wright and Ali Middleton, many of who have been recorded for the first time.

The Council's Social Portfolio Leader, Councillor Ngaire Best says Wellington has a talented pool of authors and it's the first time a group have come together to read and record their stories on CD for children.

"Whispers in the Wind is a great way for Wellington authors to bring their stories alive, ignite children's imaginations and inspire a love of reading."

The 10 children's stories are either set in Wellington or mention Wellington and range from stories about a hangi, to hermits and witches.

Featured author Janice Marriott says the CD continues the oral tradition of stories being passed down to the next generation and she enjoyed being able to contribute to the project.

"I wanted to be involved in this project because I'm committed to Wellington and writing, and this project combines these two things in one package for children."

The Whispers in the Wind CD, which is available just in time for Christmas, follows the successful launch of a Baby Rock & Rhyme CD produced by the Wellington City Libraries last year.

For more information visit www.wcl.govt.nz/storiescd