Jockey Abigail, 8, inspires magical Anwen Francis children's novel

Based on the Frenni Fach, in north Pembrokeshire, the novel follows the magical adventures of rider Abigail Parry, Magic the Shetland Pony and their new friend Toby the Toad.

‘Introducing magic to my novels has been a completely new way of writing for me,” said Anwen, who wrote the Siani Shetland and Diesel the Donkey books.

“My other books are quite factual but this one was quite a challenge.

“It’s been a long time since I was eight years old and Abigail, who appears on the cover, gave me lots of ideas.

“I thought it would be great to base the book locally.

“There’s also something very magical about the Preseli Mountains and every time I travel on them, I get this strange feeling – a feeling of mystery and enchantment."

The cover photograph was taken by well- known Cardigan photographer Sian Broderick.

‘We’ve had some terrific photos taken by Sian over the last year,” said Anwen. “Some were taken down on Poppit Sands before lockdown and others at the Frenni Fach and her work has just fitted in so well with the book theme."

Anwen also used her friend, Christine Latter from Gwili Pottery near Newcastle Emlyn, as her illustrator.

“I absolutely love Christine’s pottery work,” she explained. “It’s unique and catches the eye, so I approached her about working with me on this new novel and she agreed.

“I’m delighted with her work and the project has just come together nicely.”

Cover star Abigail is a keen rider and a member of the Tivyside Pony Club. Some of her friends from the Pony Club also feature in the novel and Abigail is delighted to feature on the front cover.

“I loved reading the book and I couldn’t put it down!” she said. “I really liked it when Magic was cantering on the mountains with Toby the Toad looking for fairies and chasing chocolate eggs! I wished it was all real!”

Abigail’s Magic can be purchased from Awen Teifi or directly from Anwen at anwen.francis@btinternet.com