This is a tale about elderly men trout fishing on the Island of North Uist.

I have hoped to catch the Hebridean ‘lilt’ in my words.

It is suitable for older children of all ages.

It complements another tale called “Murphy’s Midnight Manuevers” about two dogs.

If you find yourself on North Uist do try “Langass Lodge” for excellent food and comfortable friendly accommodation.

Some years ago we were in Milngavie Precinct near the Children’s Play Park.

Kirsty our friend Jo’s daughter, and Molly her grand -daughter, were already there.

Margaret chatted to Kirsty about the new baby (Emily) soon to arrive.

I had a long conversation with three-year-old Molly about her taste in Stories and about the Stories read to her at Nursery.

“It always about silly Frogs who turn into silly Princes,” Molly opined.

“Will I write you a story about a real Frog?”

Molly thought about it, then agreed. I suggested Frederica. Again she thought about it.

‘“Frederica the Frog? Will she be a real Frog?”

The story more of less wrote itself.

Margaret has hacked bits off it over the years but I warn you, it is still too long!

This exists in print form (A4 in colour). If you wish a copy, fill in the contact from with your request. I will be happy to send you a copy, if you are not too expensive to reach!

This is another Ode.

We heard a ‘ding-dong’ from the delivery man.

“Would you take this for next door, please?”

Laura, Ruaridh and Anya came for the huge box.

“It’s a Bumblebee outfit, John,” said the glamorous Laura.

“Ruaridh’s class is having a Mini-Beastie Party tomorrow.”

This is a story about a little field mouse called Topolina and a big black Farm cat called Nerone.

The action occurs on the evening of Halloween.

It is set in Italy, I think, but it could be Scotland.

It started as a much longer, more complicated tale.

This version is ‘much trimmed’, revised again on 1 April to include more images and a tighter script.

Hopefully it will serve as a ‘read to’ bedtime story for younger children, say aged 4 to 6?

Perhaps as a self-reader for those aged 6 or 7 plus?

I will soon be available in hard copy. Contact me if you wish a copy.

Normally this will be provided free of charge.

This was written for Julia Ailsa who is the daughter of Francesca, my long-suffering Italian tutor of many years.

It is intended as a Bedtime Story read aloud by a parent or grandparent.

Julia Ailsa is now (March 2015) two and three-quarter years old and is already tri-lingual, English, Italian and French!

Maybe soon she will read this story to me!