11 months after the publication of his first children's book Albert Upside Down, Highams Park local Ian Brown is set to release his third in the series.

 

The book, Albert Supersize, is set to come out on April the 7th, although as of the 11th of March it has been available in ebook format. The book follows the adventures of Albert the tortoise, who is based on real-life Greek tortoise Albert who was rescued more than 50 years ago by Ian’s wife Millie. Albert is now around the age of 80 years old and still happily living with Ian’s family. The book is aimed at children aged 3+, and the first two instalments have proved a hit.

 

The first book in the series, Albert Upside Down, has been shortlisted for the Bishop’s Stortford Picture Book Award 2022 following its success. The book has been praised by many celebrities, including the likes of Emmerdale star Danny Miller and his fiancee Steph who shared their love for Albert on social media, light-heartedly stating ‘Albert And The Wind rings very true to us’. This is Brown’s second book in the series, published in October 2021.

 

Ian Brown himself worked as a journalist and producer and has credits including Top Gear and The South bank show, as well as working for stars such as Bruce Forsyth, Harrison Ford and Michael Caine. Although the Albert books are his first children's books, he has always had a passion for writing and was determined to get a book deal even after ‘decades of trying’. When he finally got this book deal, Albert Upside Down proved such a success that he penned another, months later, and is now releasing a third. There are currently set to be four books in the series. Along with the books, Albert merchandise has been released, including calendars, shirts and tote bags, which are all available to buy on his website, along with the picture books themselves.

 

Brown has recently travelled around various primary schools and libraries in the area such as Wells Primary and Oakhill Primary. Highams Park library has dedicated a window display to the series, promoting the newest addition to the series as well as celebrating local pride. The window also promotes Brown's library tour taking place throughout Waltham Forest. Although Albert has fans all over the world, local support is immense, with fellow Highams Park residents keen to show their love. 

 

Albert Supersize is available to buy now as an ebook from multiple platforms including Amazon, and the paperback will be available from the 7th of April!