M.G. Leonard Visits Belhaven!
Belhaven’s creativity is, arguably, its greatest strength. Children are encouraged to be themselves and to try new things – to develop resilience through hard work in new fields. Little wonder that many shine in Art, Music, Drama and in the creation of literature; and little wonder that our latest author visit’s words had such a mesmeric effect on her audience. Thanks to our link to the wonderful Mainstreet Trading Company, we were delighted to welcome back bestselling children’s author M.G. Leonard to Belhaven on Thursday 9 October.
‘The Hunt for the Golden Scarab’ is the first book in M.G. Leonard’s new ‘Time Keys’ series. Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson use the magic of music to unlock portals to travel through time and solve mysteries that have lain hidden for years. Her passion for beetles, something developed from a childhood phobia, provided the inspiration for this particular story and this connection between an early influence and an adult achievement was not lost on the audience.
Clearly, these books are a great treat to read, but it became abundantly clear that they are also a great treat to write: M.G. Leonard showed us down into Tutunkhamun’s tomb, talked to us about the influence of the scarab beetle on Egyptian society and then showed us, in one of those moments that is impossible to predict and then, afterwards, to forget, her video footage of the young emperor’s mummy.
We were also treated to a preview of ‘The Legend of Viking Thunder’, the second in her series and this gave us a fascinating insight into how memorable characters can be created. As much as we find our heroes at home alongside our family, we can also find our villains, particularly if your family shares a passion for supporting a particular team! The scarab beetle had led to an Egyptian tomb, but it is a Manchester City footballer who leads us back to the Scandinavian past. Erling Haaland’s Nordic features inspired the villain of this second book in the series, and we were treated to the gripping opening chapter.
We also enjoyed the chance to hear about the books of her childhood. The inspiration for her portal adventures came from CS Lewis’ ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ and from Frances Burnet Hodgson’s ‘The Secret Garden’ – forbidden doors and secret pathways continue to hold a fascination for children. Another favourite was ‘The Wind in the Willows’: MG Leonard’s fascination with the fate of Otter’s son, Portly the Otter, has led her to write his story, due to be published in March 2026. Once again, the inspiration was formed in early childhood but only realised by holding true to those things that really matter all the way through to adulthood.
It was a truly uplifting event and, as over 230 children queued to meet the author, get a copy of a book signed and just delay going back to lessons for that little bit longer, we all revelled in the memories of childhood reading – one of the most important gifts that we can ever experience.
