A CHILDREN’S book about a singing mole named Percival has been published by West Somerset author Michael Charnock.

‘The Singing Mole: Adventures on the Road to Fame’ is a 64-page paperback illustrated in colour throughout for children of all ages.

Mr Charnock, who lives in Minehead, tells the story of Percival the mole, who is fed up with being a miner and has ambitions to be an opera singer, although singing underground his present audience are worms, and few performers eat their audience!

So, Percival sets out on a long journey complete with his best coat and hat and his faithful umbrella, hoping one day to see his name in lights.

On what to Percival is a long journey, the reader follows him along as he hopes to fulfil his ambition, and on the way he meets a number of creatures, including squirrels.

Percival also makes sure he is not trapped by the local gamekeeper, Bob Fishwick, who made him an orphan at an early age.

Eventually, he meets his Uncle Hector, who is a great help to Percival and his voice is heard at several venues.

One reviewer said: “Throughout the book the text in various shapes and forms is very easy to read and would make a great bedtime story for younger children.”

Another said: “As an adult, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this delightful book which has something for everyone.

“It is suitable for a variety of age groups, incorporating humour and very varied vocabulary.”

So, does Percival succeed in achieving his dream? The book will tell you.

Mr Charnock is the husband of Georgina Charnock, who is a trustee of The Mata Regal Theatre Co Ltd, Minehead, and helps to run the Oasis Theatre group for children across West Somerset with or without individual special needs and abilities.