Bubbles, bottoms and very bossy animals.
Borders College Health Care Lecturer Lesley Anderson is preparing for the launch of her latest children’s book, Bath Time at the Zoo, which will be available for general release on Amazon from 22 June.
Already an established author with a number of books to her name, Lesley’s newest release is a lively and imaginative bedtime story designed to help parents prepare young children for the end of the day through fun, rhythm and gentle routine.
The 28-page book follows a cast of playful animal characters as bath time begins at the zoo. Zebra wants his bright stripes sparkling, Lion needs to tame his mane, and Baboon insists his bottom simply cannot wait. Alongside muddy paws, itchy ears and one very long neck to wash, poor Neville faces a wonderfully chaotic challenge as he tries to get everyone ready for bed.
With its energetic rhyme, humorous storytelling and soothing bedtime conclusion, Bath Time at the Zoo offers families a joyful read-aloud experience that combines laughter with comfort, helping children settle into a calm goodnight after a busy day.
Speaking about the new release, Lesley said,
“I wanted to create a story that would make children laugh while also making bedtime feel fun, familiar and comforting. Bath time can sometimes be a challenge, so I hoped these playful zoo characters would help turn it into a moment families can really enjoy together.”
The book has been beautifully illustrated by Khayala Aliyeva, whose vibrant artwork brings Lesley’s charming animal world to life.
Lesley’s passion for caring for others has shaped both her teaching career and her writing journey. Her professional path in Health and Social Care began at the age of 15 during school work experience at a day centre for adults with dementia.
Reflecting on those early experiences, Lesley said,
“My journey to teaching in Health and Social Care started at school in 1980, when I was 15 years old. I went on work experience at a day centre for adults with dementia and was hooked from my first afternoon there. The kindness and compassion that the staff demonstrated were inspiring, and I thought, ‘I want to be like that.’ I enjoyed my work experience so much that I volunteered there during the school holidays.”
That early inspiration sparked a lifelong dedication to health and social care, leading Lesley to the role of charge nurse before moving into education, where she now blends her professional experience with her creative passion as an author.
With Bath Time at the Zoo, Lesley continues to expand her collection of books while offering families a delightful new addition to bedtime reading.