The untold Origins of Oggy the Dormouse + insights into the writing process of the author behind the series.

An insight into Oggy and Oggy’s World – ‘Origins’

A Personal Insight into Oggy’s World

Oggy’s name has its roots in Ogham, an ancient system of writing associated with Ireland and the Celtic world.

The distinguishing marks of this tree-alphabet were once carved into stone, with some of the earliest surviving examples dating back to around the 4th century.

Oggy was born into a family of stonemasons (see The Abbey & the Dormouse). Perhaps, the feeling was that his destiny had already been decided?

But then he met Aidan.

And somewhere between the stones, the stories, and the journeys they shared — alongside all the fun and mischief — Oggy realised something really important:

That he needed to have some adventures of his own.

Oggy ‘came to be’ while I was still studying symbolism at university. Perhaps that is what fascinated me most about symbols: they can be a part of very different cultures, yet still convey very similar meanings.

People may have never known each other, and lived thousands of miles apart, yet the similarities in how we express belonging, memory, journey, nature and connection are rather astounding.

Oggy grew out of that fascination.

Origins.

To celebrate that fascination, I have created a new concept:

A reimagining of the four stories from the original series.

‘Origins’ – is a Special Edition where you will find author insights into how and why Oggy came to be, alongside other bonus materials exploring the ideas, characters and places that helped shape his world.

The key focus is on:

• the way in which I develop characters through descriptive style;
• the type of artwork I favour; and
• how I associate storytelling with a strong sense of place.

I hope to show those I share my journey and stories with that they, too, may continue to be inspired — and perhaps create a little magic of their own.

This bonus material will be made available to you after the download. Please email me your request to receive it, or just enjoy the books and artwork.