Sarah is a member of The Dawnstalkers, a group of early risers who take to the waters of Penarth at Dawn.
Local author Sarah Thompson has announced the launch of her debut children’s book, 'The Dawnstalkers', an enchanting story inspired by the real-life early-morning swimmers of Penarth.
Illustrated by Penarth-based artist Emma S Jones and designed by Vanessa Bowerman from Folio Creates, this stunningly crafted book brings the magic of dawn dippers to life for children and adults alike.
The Dawnstalkers follows the daily adventures of a group of early risers who take to the waters of Penarth at dawn, with magical characters drawn from real-life figures in the local community. One standout character, Lene, co-founder of the Dawnstalkers, appears as a serene mermaid who sings a calming call to summon the sea dippers to the shore, creating a mesmerizing world for readers.
She said “I am thrilled to be a character in Sarah’s book, especially as a mermaid as I love the sea. I hope my character inspires and encourages young people to be brave and calm when doing things that may be hard for them in life”.
Sarah and Emma’s collaboration began at a children’s writing workshop hosted at Penarth Library, where they discovered their shared passion for storytelling and creativity. Together, they have created a book that beautifully captures the charm and strong sense of community of Penarth’s Dawnstalkers.
To celebrate the launch, Sarah will be hosting a special sunrise event at Penarth Seafront on Saturday, 21st September from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM, in front of the RNLI station. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to witness the magic of dawn as the sun rises at 6:58 AM, followed by live readings of the book, book signings and dedications, and the chance to meet some of the real-life characters featured in the story, including Captain Grant, Lene the Mermaid, James the Shutterbug & Dexter the Dog.
Launch Event Highlights:
- Sunrise book readings by Sarah Thompson
- Signed copies for sale from the first 100 printed
- Live illustration with Emma S Jones
- Meet the real-life characters from the story
- Free cookie from Stol Coffee with every book purchase
- Enjoy the vibrant colours of dawn sunrise at 6:58am and take a dip with the Dawnstalkers, or just watch from the shore
Bring your family for a morning filled with storytelling, creativity, and magic. Be among the first to own a signed copy of *The Dawnstalkers*, a perfect keepsake that celebrates the beauty of Penarth and its vibrant community.
Follow the journey of 'The Dawnstalkers’ children's book and stay updated via www.sarahthompsonwrites.com
Candlelit vigil held for White Ribbon Day
Mental health Hangout opens in Barry
Two charged with Barry Island stabbing
Mayor to host Christmas Market
Santa Sleigh returns to Barry
Barry Island: two arrests after serious assault
Tui to expand Cardiff Airport flights
Vale Council facing £14.8m budget gap
Santa's reindeer let loose in Cardiff Bay
Sculptures on show at Art Central
BA to expand Cardiff Airport maintenance base
New contractors for Ysgol Llyn Derw
Big winter party for More in Common group
Review: Array truly shine in expert retelling of Sondheim's ‘Company’
Gloves on for Barry volunteer
First look at Gavin and Stacey: The Finale, coming on Christmas Day
Barry Biomass on the brink?
Penarth walk raises funds for new gym equipment
