Heart-warming tale of adventure and discovery

Celebrated children’s book author, Nicky Aylmer, has recently released her second book in the Meerkat Adventure series, titled Meerkat Quest. Following the success of her debut book, Meerkat Escapade, she continues to captivate young readers with enchanting tales set in the magical landscapes of the Kalahari Desert.

The inspiration for writing a follow-up to Meerkat Escapade stemmed from its resounding success among younger readers. “I was delighted by the positive reception, which led me to order three sets to be printed within just nine months. The overwhelming support prompted me to embark on a new adventure, focussing on the lovable meerkat protagonist, Bother, and his thrilling escapades.”

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Aylmer’s deep connection with meerkats stems from several trips she and her husband, a wildlife photographer, made to the Kgalagadi, where they had the privilege of witnessing these captivating creatures in their natural habitat. Meerkats’ quirky, mischievous nature and strong sense of family resonated deeply with her, inspiring her to share their stories with young readers.

Unfortunately, sightings of meerkats in the wild have become increasingly rare, adding an urgency to preserve their essence within her books.

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In Meerkat Escapade, young readers are introduced to Bother, a mischievous meerkat who often finds himself in precarious situations due to his disobedience and reckless behaviour. However, in Meerkat Quest, Bother has grown older and embarks on a quest to find a cure when he falls ill. Along his journey, Bother encounters various creatures of the Kgalagadi, engaging in heartwarming conversations and learning valuable life lessons.

The social behaviour and playful nature of meerkats are skillfully incorporated into the storyline, allowing Bother to interact with the diverse range of creatures inhabiting the Kalahari. In the first book, Bother faces a threat from Swoop, a falcon, while the second book sees him embark on a captivating journey, where he engages with his fellow animals in the pursuit of knowledge and self-discovery.

The illustrations in both books have been brought to life by a talented young artist, who skillfully used vibrant colours and animation to create a visually captivating experience for young readers. The references, provided by Aylmer herself, along with e-material, enhance the enchanting storytelling, over time immersing readers in the rich world of the Kalahari and its charismatic residents.

Aylmer has carefully woven important messages and values into her stories. Through Meerkat Escapade, children learn the significance of listening to their elders, obedience, and responsibility. In Meerkat Quest, they discover the transformative power of turning challenging experiences into opportunities that benefit others.

Both books are filled with interesting facts and details about meerkats and the Kalahari and are targeted at young readers from Grade 00 to Grade 3, ensuring they resonate both as entertaining stories and valuable educational resources.
“I hope that my books will not only entertain children but also instill in them a sense of wonder, curiosity, and appreciation for wildlife and conservation.”

Looking towards the future, Aylmer has a third book ready on her computer, yet she plans to focus on marketing Meerkat Quest before delving into new projects. “With the release of my latest book, it aspires to transport young readers to the extraordinary world of the Kgalagadi, a place far away that they might not have the opportunity to visit, providing them with a captivating window into this special realm.”

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