Meet the 14-year-old who published a book over lockdown

Pentyrch teen’s story for children inspired by much-missed family pet

A TEENAGER from Pentyrch has published her first children’s book called Thunder Paws, the story of a clumsy newfoundland-poodle puppy called Sassy. 

Despite starting the book when she was 11, it was during lockdown when Megan Jones had time to finish the book and get it published. 

Megan’s mum, Sarah Jones, explained that she has always loved reading and writing.

“It isn’t something that we have pushed, she just loves it and is always looking for inspiration.”

“Megan is often building character profiles or storylines,” she continued. 

Sassy was the family’s much-loved pet. He was noisy and clumsy, which inspired Megan to name the children’s book Thunder Paws

Sadly, Sassy passed away in November last year from cancer. Her passing left a hole in the Jones family, but now Megan says her memory lives on through Thunder Paws.  

Sassy the newfoundland-poodle is the inspiration behind Thunder Paws. Credit: Megan Jones

On October 31, Thunder Paws was published. It is available to buy on Amazon, Waterstones and local bookshops in Cardiff. 

One Amazon customer left a review that said: “The talented young author is an inspiration to young people and I’m sure this is the start of a wonderful writing career!”

It is also being sold at Pentyrch’s Virtual Christmas Market, which can be found on Facebook.

Megan has already started writing a sequel, and a novel targeted at teens. She hopes to follow in the footsteps of Michelle Power, the author of her favourite book Wolf Brother. 

When asked if she’d want to pursue a career as an author, Megan replied “that would be so cool”. 

Julia Donaldson, the author of The Gruffalo has also been an inspiration to Megan.  

In addition to the writing, Megan also drew all the illustrations for Thunder Paws. 

“We’re all so proud of her,” said her mum.  

Megan runs an Instagram account dedicated to Thunder Paws: @thunder_paws_the_book.