A new adventure is ready for readers to dive into thanks to local author Christina Hatton-Fearnley. This will be the third children's book Hatton-Fearnley has written, previously she put pen to paper for "The Lost Photograph" and "Kevin The Pack Goat".
For Hatton-Fearnley, it's not just about writing the stories but the why behind it that is the most important for her.
"I really love sharing my life experiences, with the first book, 'The Lost Photograph,' I wanted to share a story about my love for photography, my background, and then with 'Kevin The Pack Goat' it's about getting into and raising goats and the adventure we are on."
The third book, "Girls Can Be Farmers Too," has just as strong a connection for Hatton-Fearnley and she wanted to share a story that celebrated being a girl and working in agriculture.
"I have been so blessed with getting to know so many women in the community. That we're so open to either coming by and helping me and answering questions. There is just such a great community in Strathmore and in Wheatland County, so many amazing women that have inspired me."
When Hatton-Fearnley and her husband decided to buy their farm and work with goats there was a learning curve, and although she said she may not have had as much experience as some, she was willing to work hard, ask a lot of questions, and learn as much as she could. All of which could not have happened without the support of the strong agricultural community in this area.
She wrote this book with a goal in mind, which was to show young girls that they can do anything they set their mind to. Unfortunately, when doing research about women in agriculture there were some things she learned that were very disheartening.
"National Geographic did this amazing article about women in the agriculture business sharing how they would grow their food, but they aren't allowed to sell it at the market because they're not allowed to take money from people. So the men would go to market and sell and take the money. They (women) can do the dirty work but cannot be the face of their business."
She hopes that she can share this story and it will show girls that they can follow their dreams.
"You know, you might have to work a little harder, but if that's your dream, please find people in your life to encourage you, to inspire you and people that will build you up. "
With the release of her latest book, Hatton-Fearnley is visiting different groups and organizations to share her story and interact with people inside and outside of the agriculture industry. Most recently she was at the Women's Centre of Calgary with one mission.
"I'm going to speak about my book, encourage the women there and their kids about pursuing their dreams, their passions, finding people in their life that will walk alongside them to journey with them."
Writing children's books has Hatton-Fearnley living her dream, and she said she could not have done this without the partnership with her illustrator.
"I cannot say enough good things about this young lady. Her name is Emmeline Keeling, which is noted on all three books, she is phenomenal. I can't imagine doing another project without her."
Right now you can find her latest book "Girls Can Be Farmers Too" at the new Market on Main Street (located next to The Rack on 3rd) and at Lil' Hoots. To book a talk or reading with Hatton-Fearnley visit her Facebook page here.
Hatton-Fearnley said there are more stories to come, and her dream is just beginning. She can't wait to share new adventures with her readers!
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