Hello this is the short story that I wrote. It was inspired by a real process . It’s a story for grown ups disguised as a children’s book and it’s called AL’s Spectacular Birthday Gift ( please note it’s about a boy named AL not a reference to A.I ) it’s available to read via Amazon or you can watch a video in which i tell you the story. I hope a few will have as much enjoyment reading it as I did writing it.

What some readers said …


From readers “ a great little book” ( reader in their 70s )


“ I really enjoyed this story “ reader in their 30s


“ I don’t get it, what kid wants to work ?” Reader aged 9



‘ perhaps it’s an allegory for adults disguised as a children book ‘ the author



Al’s Spectacular Birthday Gift is an imaginative new story by Josie d’Arby.

Al is about to have his 12th birthday. He is on holiday at the remote lake house where his mother grew up, in her small hometown full of eccentric characters, one of whom is about to give Al an unexpected gift ! Could this be Al’s greatest birthday yet.



A quick and easy read, the story is intended for adults and children but really, although naive , it is written with adults in mind . The author hopes it transports the reader to a time of innocence , imagination and coming of age.



As a writer Josie has her own style and voice, and hasn’t conformed to the rules of writing. The story , deliberately , requires a generosity of spirit from the reader. “One has to set aside any disputatious tendencies and enjoy .”

In the UK Purchase the book here . Or Available on Amazon worldwide wherever you are.

FREE! Watch Josie read first three mins of book here

Al’s spectaular gift is available in the following ways:

Download free on Kindle unlimited

Download pay on Kindle £5

Buy Paperback from Amazon £8

Buy Hardcover on Amazon £20

Watch first 3 mins of Josie reading book free here

Also available , it’s story time! Relax and let Josie read the entire story to you ! £1 to rent on Vimeo on Demand , rental includes bonus video/s

Josie would like to extend her sincere and Huge thanks to anyone who enjoys the book.