A new book is being launched this month – based on the legendary archer coming to Cupar. The book – Robbing Hood – is the creation of class teacher, Gary Smith, and includes over 50 drawings by pupils of St Columba’s RC Primary School featuring their favourite Cupar locations.

Gary says: “The book was inspired by the love that our pupils have for Cupar and it has been a wonderful experience to use such familiar locations in the story.”

Available in paperback and e-book formats, Robbing Hood sees the legendary archer come to modern-day Cupar, where he proceeds to take over the town! The book also features a song written by P4 that celebrates the town.

Wordsmith …

Gary has lived in Cupar since he was four years old. He says: “I can’t imagine living anywhere else. It’s a great town to live and a lovely place to bring up a family.” When he was growing up, he attended Castlehill before moving on to Bell Baxter. After high school, Gary studied History and English at Dundee University. He worked in the University Archives and progressed to achieve a PhD in History.

How did he first get into writing? He explains: “I’ve always loved to read, but my writing is something that’s developed over time. Much of my early writing was academic, then I spent several years writing columns, interviews and articles for internet comic and entertainment sites, putting my knowledge of Marvel Comics trivia to good use!”

His children’s writing really began when his own boys were younger: “The bedtime story was always a special routine for us. I began to write stories that I could share with them and once I started, I found it difficult to stop. There’s something about writing – about developing your ideas and bringing characters and worlds to life – that’s very special and so rewarding.”

One of his real pleasures gained from writing children’s books was undertaking school visits – and that took Gary on a new path, retraining as a primary school teacher. Today, Gary teaches and continues to write children’s books. Primarily, his books are aimed at readers aged 7+ although, Gary says: “I hope that they are enjoyable for all ages.”

Book launch …

Gary will be at Cupar library on Thursday 25^th June from 4-5 to discuss Robbing Hood and his other novels.

Gary’s books …

Gary has published four books:

• The Supervillain Next Door (2019)
• The Crazy Christmas Job Swap (2019)
• A Time for Heroes (2020)
• The Supervillain Next Door: World’s most wanted (2022)
• Best left forgotten (Young Adult) (2024)
• Robbing Hood (2026)

 

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