The Patch-based author Derek Braidner is celebrating the release of his debut children’s book, ‘Puffing Billy: The Gift of the Forest’, just in time for Children’s Week.
What makes the release even more special is Mr Braidner co-authored the book with his daughter-in-law, Gina Braidner, with illustrations by Dan Nav.
The book introduces readers to a reimagined version of the beloved Puffing Billy, a little boy train that gains the ability to communicate with animals in a magical forest.
Set in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, the story draws on the rich history of the Puffing Billy Railway while weaving in elements of fantasy and adventure that will captivate children.
Mr Braidner’s deep connection to Puffing Billy began in his own childhood when he first rode the train in 1953.
Over the years, he spent 25 years volunteering with the railway, forging strong bonds with the community and it was during this time that Mr Braidner noticed the deep affection people had for the train, which inspired him to bring Puffing Billy to life in a new way.
“Puffing Billy has always been more than just a train for me. It’s a symbol of history and community,” Mr. Braidner said.
“Through the series, I wanted to introduce children to Puffing Billy’s rich history while keeping the story engaging and full of magic.”
The first book is the beginning of a planned 26-book series, with the second instalment expected to be released in just three weeks, followed by the third in a month – each book in the series will introduce new characters and new adventures.
There are already 127 characters planned, including real historical figures like Mr Tunks, a station master, as well as unique forest animals like a kangaroo, wombat twins, and an emu, all playing their part in running the railway.
“The characters are a mix of the real and the fantastical,” Mr Braidner said.
“I wanted to blend the true history of Puffing Billy with the joy of storytelling, to create a world where kids can learn while having fun.”
For Mr Braidner, ‘Puffing Billy: The Gift of the Forest’ is more than just a book, it’s a vision of something much larger.
He hopes the series will resonate with both children and adults to evoke a sense of nostalgia for the parents and create a lasting memories for the younger generation.
Mr Braidner believes the books have the potential to become a cultural phenomenon, similar to iconic children’s series like Thomas the Tank Engine and Bluey.
“I’ve always admired how characters like Thomas and Bluey have touched so many lives,” The Patch author said.
“I want Puffing Billy to have the same impact. Not just as a book, but as a character that becomes a part of childhood, teaching important values along the way.”
The series isn’t just for local readers, it also incorporates technology to expand its reach, with a QR code included in the book that unlocks animated content in multiple languages, including Chinese and Hindi.
The goal is to make the book accessible to global audiences, particularly in countries like China and India, where visitors to Puffing Billy are a significant part of the community.
In addition to its international appeal, the book carries a strong message of inclusivity and community.
Mr Braidner hopes to inspire empathy, kindness, and the value of working together through Puffing Billy’s adventures.
He’s also eager to reflect Australia’s cultural diversity in the series, to show how our differences make us unique while emphasising the shared human experience.
“It’s important for kids to understand the value of friendship, teamwork, and kindness, the world we live in is diverse, and that’s something I want to celebrate in these stories,” Mr Braidner said.
While the first book focuses on the Dandenongs, Mr Braidner hopes to expand the series to introduce even more global characters as the series progresses.
“I’d love to see characters from China, India, Afghanistan, France, and Spain feature in future books,” he said.
“If this series takes off, it can be a tool to help kids understand the world in a broader way. It’s about kindness and acceptance, things that go beyond borders.”
In the second book, which will be released just before Christmas, Mr Braidner takes Puffing Billy on a snowy adventure, to help Santa deliver presents.
The upcoming Christmas edition will focus on teamwork, community spirit, and the true meaning of the holiday.
“Christmas isn’t just about gifts; it’s about giving, kindness, and helping others,” he said.
“I think these are important messages for children, especially around the holiday season.”
In the meantime, readers can purchase the book at local shops in the Dandenongs, as well as from Dang Books, a local children’s book creator located in Drummond Road, Seville.
“I want these books to be a part of kids’ lives, and I’m excited to see where the journey takes us,” Mr Braidner said.
