A simple family game that started as a fun way to enjoy the holiday season has now turned into a heartwarming children’s book thanks to the creativity and determination of a dad in Newton-le-Willows.
Brian Agger, a 52-year-old sales manager, was inspired by a game he played with his daughter Jasmine a few years ago. The game involved counting Christmas trees on their walk home from the Kirkfield Hotel, and it soon became a cherished tradition for the family. After turning the game into a short poem in 2018, Brian’s wife Carla encouraged him to develop it into a children’s book.
Despite a few years of the idea being put on hold, Brian finally decided to bring the story to life last Christmas when Jasmine’s enthusiasm for the game reignited his inspiration. With Jasmine’s help and the artistic skills of Carla’s colleague Rachel, the book titled ‘Counting Christmas Trees’ was born.
The book captures the festive spirit of Newton-le-Willows, with illustrations showcasing the beautiful trees along the high street, church, town hall, and Crow Lane cottages. Brian took on the publishing process himself and is set to release the book on November 12th.
Brian expressed his pride in the book and the collaborative effort that went into its creation. He emphasized that while the story is rooted in his family’s experiences, he hopes that other families can also find connection and joy in the tale, relating it to their own Christmas traditions and memories.
In a heartwarming gesture, Brian has pledged to donate a percentage of the book’s profits to St Peter’s primary school, where Jasmine attends. The community support for ‘Counting Christmas Trees’ has been overwhelming, with pre-orders available and plans for the book to be sold in select shops in Newton-le-Willows and on Amazon in the near future.
The story of ‘Counting Christmas Trees’ serves as a reminder of the magic and joy that the holiday season can bring, as well as the power of family traditions and creative collaboration. It is a testament to the spirit of giving and sharing, both in the story itself and in the author’s commitment to supporting his local community.
