Plastic parable published

‘The Plastic People of Plastic Town’ is Stephen Gibling’s debut book, and it’s been so well-received it’s already been entered for the Oscar Book Prize.

Published by Pegasus, ‘The Plastic People’ discusses the environmental issues disposable plastic can cause if it isn’t recycled.

Stephen, who is the managing director of Plastic Building Supplies in Norwich, wrote the book in lunchtimes at work, and even roped in talented colleague Samantha Taylor from the company’s marketing department, to illustrate the book.

Stephen said: “I’ve suffered with dyslexia since schooldays, but that hasn’t stopped my love for writing poems, monologues and even scripts for local theatre groups.

“This is my first attempt at a children’s book and with so much information in the media about the dangers of plastic, plus the fact I work in the industry, I wanted to send a clear message to children, which is quite simply not to discard plastic waste.”

He described the response to ‘The Plastic People’ as ‘incredible’ with granddaughter Dulcie being his biggest fan.

“She’s only 18 months old but loves the story and all of the colourful images,” Stephen said.

“The publishers have asked for first refusal on my next two books which will be about bullying and disability.”

‘The Plastic People’ is one of five books entered by Pegasus into the Oscar Book Prize. The awards’ patron is HRH Princess Beatrice with broadcaster Lorraine Kelly acting as lead judge.

Kestrel sales and marketing director Owen Thorogood offered his congratulations to Stephen.

“The message Stephen is sending children in this book is incredibly important and timely: we all need to mindful of how we use resources,” Owen said.

“I had no idea Stephen was such a literary talent – it just goes to show you can’t judge a book by its cover.”