By NEIL BRAVO, Philippines News Perth
East Perth, WA—The cosy café Espresso Perk U Later in East Perth was abuzz with excitement as around 35 attendees gathered for the official launch of Bath Ballerina, a delightful rhyming picture book penned by Gooseberry Hill author Alaina Watts and illustrated by her talented mother, Robin Lezer. The event drew a warm and supportive crowd, including Perth City Councillor Catherine Lezer, making the occasion all the more special.
Attendees were treated to an array of delectable pastries and other mouth-watering creations prepared by Chef Chris Aguasa. The delightful spread, paired with expertly brewed coffee, created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that set the perfect tone for the launch. Guests relished both the culinary delights and the opportunity to celebrate local creativity.
For Ms Watts, the launch of Bath Ballerina marked a significant milestone. “It’s my debut as a published author, and I really want to enjoy the satisfaction of fulfilling this dream right now…but I have more books in me,” she shared. A lifelong Hills local, Ms Watts works at Kalamunda’s First Avenue Gift Shop and has spent the last two decades living in Lesmurdie with her four children, where her family life inspired her creative storytelling.
The book’s exquisite watercolour illustrations were lovingly created by her mother, Robin Lezer, in her Gooseberry Hill home of 42 years. Ms Lezer is highly respected for her artistic expertise in oils, watercolour, and acrylics—a reputation earned through years of exhibiting and selling her works as a Hills artist. Bath Ballerina stands as a testament to her talent, capturing the whimsy and wonder that perfectly complements the story’s catchy rhymes.
“We’ve all seen the water vortex spiralling down the plughole and heard the suction noise as the last of the bathwater drains away. This is the magic of the Bath Ballerina.”
Alaina Watts
Bath Ballerina reimagines bath time as a magical experience, with a universal appeal for children and parents alike. “We’ve all seen the water vortex spiralling down the plughole and heard the suction noise as the last of the bathwater drains away. This is the magic of the Bath Ballerina,” Ms Watts explained.
Parents will adore this enchanting tale for its clever approach to the age-old bath time challenge. The book’s twist—children must leave the bath to witness the Bath Ballerina’s magical finale—promises to transform bath time into an easy and enjoyable ritual. “Getting kids out of the bath can be a drama, but this turns it into something they’ll look forward to,” Ms Watts added with a smile.
The event featured heartfelt speeches, engaging conversations, and personalised signed copies of Bath Ballerina that delighted attendees. The book is now available in local libraries, bookstores, and online retailers, including Amazon. Readers can also purchase signed copies at the First Avenue Gift Shop in Kalamunda, where Ms Watts works.
With its catchy rhymes, captivating illustrations, and imaginative charm, Bath Ballerina is set to become a favourite among families, promising magical bath times for children across Australia.
