Written by local author Penny Byrne, What’s in your pocket, Peg? tells the story of Peggy, who arrives in Jersey to stay with her aunt and cousins.
The story follows Peggy’s time in Jersey with snippets of what life was like under German rule. On each page readers are able to guess what is in Peg’s pocket. It also features Jèrriais throughout.
The Channel Islands Co-operative Society’s Grand Marché stores in St Helier and St Peter are among those stocking the book, which is raising money for Age Concern Jersey, the British Red Cross (Jersey), Holidays for Heroes Jersey and the Royal British Legion Jersey branch.
A total of 2,000 books have been printed which, if they all sell, will raise more than £18,000.
A number of Islanders have worked together to bring the project to life including Aaron Labey, managing director at Labey Limited, sponsors Margaret Thompson of Thompson Estates and Islander Kate Taylor, and illustrator Lauren Radley.
Mark Cox, Co-op acting chief executive, said: ‘It’s important that our younger generation learn about Jersey’s history and the stories of those who lived through the Occupation are remembered. This children’s storybook is a perfect way for our young Islanders to learn that history.’
Ms Byrne, who has also written Seymour’s Seaside Picnic, which raised money for the Jersey Child Care Trust, said: ‘I’ve always wanted to write a children’s book about the Occupation, and the Liberation 75 celebrations seemed the perfect time to do it. The book is designed to work on a number of levels – to appeal to younger readers who might enjoy guessing what is in Peg’s pocket, as well as to older children who want to discover what life was like under German rule.
‘There is plenty of other information for teachers and adults as well. Thanks to our very generous sponsors and the Co-op, all proceeds from the sales of the book will be shared equally between four local charities.’
Mr Labey added: ‘I’m delighted to see this project come to fruition. Penny and the team have worked tirelessly to get this book off the ground and I feel privileged, on behalf of Labey Limited, to have played a part in making it happen. I feel very proud to be from Jersey and mark this huge day in our calendar.’
The book, which costs £9.99, is also on sale at Waitrose stores, Marks & Spencer King Street and the post offices at Rue des Prés and Broad Street.
