Rail journeys across the continent have served as the foundation for a new children’s adventure released by a West Yorkshire writer.
Stephen Maltas, from Keighley, incorporated his enthusiasm for railways and stations into a story featuring a young protagonist travelling through Europe.
The narrative traces character Tia’s route beginning in Britain before reaching the capital, where she boards a European service from one London terminus to another.
The tale moves through France, highlighting well-known attractions while incorporating actual railway and metro connections to assist young readers in tracking the protagonist’s movements.
Maltas explained that authentic rail locations were woven throughout the narrative to enable children to accompany Tia’s journey in sequence.
Confidence developed unexpectedly for the writer, who had received persistent encouragement from his spouse to pursue authorship.
Initial uncertainty about commercial appeal dissolved after his debut work secured publication.
The writer reflected that scepticism about market interest proved unfounded when his first manuscript received immediate acceptance, followed by similar success with subsequent projects.
Problem-solving proved unnecessary during composition.
Maltas indicated that the destination remained clear throughout the creative process, requiring only navigation between points rather than encountering creative obstacles.
Most concepts materialised during swimming sessions, when concentration on physical activity created space for ideas to surface naturally.
Future literary plans remain undetermined.
The author has not confirmed whether another title for younger readers will follow or whether a work targeting adult audiences might emerge instead.
Aspiring writers should persist despite difficulties, according to Maltas, who emphasised that genuine enjoyment in the creative process matters most.
Both Tia’s Grand Tour and the earlier title Tia Misses Christmas (Almost!) are currently stocked at £14.99 per copy through Amazon, Pegasus publishing, and various internet retailers.