A Woody Point local is set to launch a new children’s book on 1 July titled What Does My Dad Do?
It will be the fourth release for father-of-two Lee Phethean, whose previous titles – The Koala That Couldn’t Sleep, The Kangaroo That Couldn’t Jump and The Possums That Could Fly – have collectively sold more than 10,000 copies.
Lee said he decided to take a different direction with the subject matter this time.
“It’s still inspired by my children but focuses on a child’s imagination rather than the Australian wildlife theme,” he said.
“When my boys were younger, I realised they didn’t really know what I did for a job.
“From their perspective, it was just working on a computer, talking on the phone or going to the office.
“So it got me thinking – what do kids think their parents really do when they say they are going to work?”
Inspiration and Author Journey
For the new book, Lee also chose to work with a new illustrator based in Rio de Janeiro.
“I’m pretty excited for this release,” he said.
When he isn’t busy working full-time as a development manager or writing stories inspired by childhood imagination, Lee enjoys spending time by the water with his family.
“On weekends, I enjoy taking the kids down to the waterfront and bike riding or running along the foreshore,” he said.
Lee regularly attends local markets where his books are displayed and sold.
He said one of the most rewarding parts of being an author is watching children connect with his stories.
“Sometimes kids who are just learning to read will read my books out loud in front of me,” he said.
“It’s so special seeing the words I’ve written bringing smiles and giggles to little ones.
“Especially during author visits to daycare and kindy centres.
“I’m always grateful when parents tell me my books are their child’s favourites and that they know every word off by heart.”
Although Lee already has ideas forming for future stories, his focus is currently on the upcoming release of What Does My Dad Do?
“I’m sure that as my children grow older, my books will evolve,” he said.
“After all, they are the ones providing me with all the inspiration and subject matter.”
Read more stories from the Sandgate Guide print magazine here:
- Bramble Buzz: Updates from the Community
- Movie Review: A Loose End
- Podcast Review: The Rest is History
- Plan for Your Bad Days
- Debt Consolidation
- What You Need to Know About AI and Your Data
- Listen to the Band!
- Local Businesses Behind the Thriving Fishing Community
- RAAF Sandgate History Inspires Local Author’s New Book
- Quota Sandgate Fashion Parade Supports Local Community
- Seniors’ Expo Returns to Sandgate Town Hall
- Forrest Gump Themed Venue Running Into Sandgate
- Reconciliation Week: A Time to Listen, Learn and Grow
- Sandgate Dressmaker Saves the Day
- Riverbend Ensemble Returns With Folk-Inspired Concert
- Brisbane Greeters Launch Free Guided Tour In Sandgate
- First Sandgate Comedy Festival Sets Bar Hilariously High
- Planning for Sandgate’s Future
- How to Get Your Wardrobe Ready for Winter
- Residents Call for Council Funding
- Free Things to Do in Sandgate This Winter
- Professional Dancers Bring Ballroom Lessons To the 4017
- Samford Arts Trail Opens Doors to Creativity
- Organic Gardening in June
- Community Spirit to Shine at St Joseph’s Fete
