Gourock dad pens new children's book set in Inverclyde

Kevin McAdam wrote Bear in the Park based on the fun-filled life of his beautiful big Leonberger/Newfoundland cross, Bear. 

Kevin, 35, said the idea for the book evolved from time spent with his son Findlay during the coronavirus lockdown.

He said: "Findlay and I spent a lot of time drawing and doing a lot of art, just trying to pass the time.

"We started drawing Bear and other dogs and it grew into a story.

"It's the first time I've ever done anything like this. 

"I was always into writing and drawing in school, but didn't ever think anything would come of it.

"It's amazing to finally be able to bring the story to life."

Kevin said the words and illustrations for the book sat for a while until his friend Ross Wilson, who is himself a published author, suggested he gathered the material together into a book. 

He launched a Kickstarter funding campaign and the money donated enabled him to print 200 copies.

Kevin will officially unveil the book at an event in Gourock today (Saturday). 

Bear in the Park tells the story of a group of dogs who think the huge Leonberger/Newfoundland cross is a real bear, but soon find out he's going to be their friend. 

Kevin said the book reflects some of the reactions dogs and their owners have when they see the colossal canine. 

He added: "Bear is a huge dog with a huge presence and some people can be a bit intimidated by him. 

"They soon find out he's a big softie. 

"He got really big really quickly. 

"He was 50kg at eight months old and now he's four and has reached 70kg. 

"He's really good with puppies but gets a bit nervous of dogs nearer his size. 

"He usually just lies down to show them he's no threat."

Kevin said his family, including his wife Emma-Louise, Findlay and daughter Ayla are all very proud of him. 

Kevin added: "People have been telling me that kids have really latched onto it and want to read it again and again.

"It's so lovely to hear that."

Kevin will be officially launching Bear in the Park at Crow Cottage Arts in Gourock on Saturday from 2-4pm and copies will be available from there afterwards.