Children's book explores Steveston Village

A young boy and his pet venture into the corners of Steveston Village in a new children’s book — Jack and Rat’s Great Adventure.

This is Richmond author Jenny Lamb’s first published book and serves as a tribute to her late parents.

“When my father passed away, I found it difficult to journal the same way I did when my mom died,” recalled Lamb.

“It was only after I finished writing this book that I realized that they were in the story as well.”

Through her rhyming words and the colourful illustrations of Isabelle Henderson, Lamb tells a story of a boy named Jack who lives on a boat with his father and pet Rat; one day, Jack became restless and “wished and wished that he might just explore this world beyond their tiny ship.”

The story, said Lamb, “speaks to the enduring power of love and family, all wrapped up in an adventure.

“Jack and Rat’s Great Adventure is 100 per cent Steveston” and includes details such as the fisherman statue, huge flocks of snow geese and farmhouses dotting the dykes.   

Henderson’s chalk-like illustrations bring a new perspective to Steveston’s scenery, such as the setting sun and violent sea waves. 

“Isabelle and I are both lucky to live in Steveston, so it seemed natural for it to be the setting of the book,” explained Lamb.

It took more than a year and a half to craft the book.

“It’s a children’s book, but there’s something for the parents as well, they might even get more out of it than the kids,” added Lamb.

The book will be available for sale at Pieces, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery and the Steveston Book Store.