Martin Bradley’s new book Top Gun of the Sky, a tale inspired by two young Peregrines that fell from their nest at Fawley Power Station, was launched at the Hawk Conservancy Trust on 9th November.
Top Gun of the Sky is the tale, written as a poem, of life through the eyes of a Peregrine Falcon, the fastest bird on earth that has inspired and enchanted the author for many years.
After being discovered at the Power Station, the young birds were subsequently rescued and rehabilitated by the Hawk Conservancy Trust and it seemed appropriate that the book launch take place on the park. Around 70 guests attended the launch; among them Martin, booksellers, staff, friends and family. Guests of honour included a team from ExxonMobil’s Fawley Refinery, where Martin works and monitors the local Peregrine population, and Ali Sparkes, children’s author and Hawk Conservancy supporter who mentored Martin.
ExxonMobil generously funded the production of the book. Guests were invited to watch a Peregrine Falcon fly in a demonstration, a unique chance to watch the hero of the book in action.
The book proved extremely popular at the launch event and orders have been flying in! It’s easy to see why children have fallen in love with it. The verse is simple and engaging, the illustrations vivid and imaginative, while the book also boasts a pictorial glossary and a step-by-step guide to how to draw a Peregrine Falcon, a raptor that has been brought back from the verge of extinction in the United Kingdom.
Chris Packham, TV presenter and Hawk Conservancy Trust President, wrote the foreword for Martin’s book and is an advocate of bird of prey conservation.
Top Gun of the Sky is available at the Hawk Conservancy Trust, online at Ceratopia Books, at zoos and wildlife parks and also through several local shops. It retails at £4.99 with proceeds going to the Hawk Conservancy Trust.
