City stars in children’s book

Millions of ants have invaded Palmerston North and the mayor needs to drive them away.

It’s a fictional situation, but a children’s book set in Palmerston North that features familiar local names and places has just been released.

The book, titled The Ants, Mayor Grant, Sir Patrick, and the Old Tar Laying Machine, is about how mayor Grant Smith responds to the crisis, and the plot includes the intervention of Sir Patrick Higgins and his contracting firm.

Author David Clegg originally wrote the story for his grandson, who lives in Colombia. In the book’s dedication, Clegg says he hopes it might inspire him to ‘‘spend time in this wonderful city’’ one day.

Clegg has been living in Palmerston North for 13 years, but has lived in the Manawatu¯ region for 44 years.

He read the story out to his partner, Di Mccallion, who said it was too good for him to give only to his grandson. Clegg now hopes many people in Palmerston North will enjoy it.

He approached 50 people or brands to make sure they were happy to be part of it. He said they found the story funny.

The mayor became the lead character and the Higgins machine popped up because ‘‘I needed a machine to spread the bait’’.

The book was illustrated by Emilie Grant and published by Massey University Press.

‘‘I wanted everything Palmerston North-based,’’ Clegg said. ‘‘She [Grant] lived in the Hokowhitu area like we did.’’

Clegg hopes older Palmerston North citizens will also read it.

‘‘The fact that it’s a quirky book might attract the adults to it.’’