Tales of Northwick cover. Illustration by Brian George
For anyone arriving here from the business journalism part of my website, you’ll notice we’re forsaking the world of high finance for children’s stories. I've written a number of these over the years and published nine in the illustrated book "Tales of Northwick", which is sold in aid of the charity the Nystagmus Network. Illustrations by Brian George.
"I find Northwick's tales wonderful reading. I can relate to so much!” – Jan Crews, New Zealand.
"I really love your stories. They are fantastically funny. When we bought our bear after getting my eye test, we made him glasses from pipe cleaners. The first story about Frank and his new bike reminded me of my mum when I was learning." -- Jake, London
"Thanks so much for the stories. They have really helped Jake and I talk about things." -- Jake's mum Carol
"I'm e-mailing you to say how much I love Northwick I really like the idea of living bears and bears with nystagmus. At the recent open day I bought the Northwick book (Well my mum did!) and I have read it and thought it an absolutely brilliant book. I am probably going to get my friends to read it so that they can find out more about nystagmus without knowing it."—Victoria, Sheffield
"Dear Northwick, We love reading about adventures with Frank. Please can you send me a copy of your book so we can read the stories over and over again."-- Sheela, Harpenden
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"These nine stories begin with our not realising the full implications of Nystagmus, but gradually, as Frank (and Northwick) go to school, have a trip to the seaside, learn to use a computer, experience other children's teasing, and participate in a school concert (which makes Frank's eyes go very wobbly indeed), we learn much more about what Nystagmus means to children. The tone is light and warmly funny, as are the soft pencil illustrations, and while there is a lot of text, children will enjoy having these stories read aloud. Those with Nystagmus will readily relate to Frank and Northwick."