When history joins science fiction …… and becomes a book for children of all ages

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that when history collides with science fiction it’s bound to be fun*.

Well Jane Austen it ain’t but it is a start and perfectly fixes Peter Topping’s new book for kids of all ages.

“Chorlton Library is an Alien Spaceship” is the story of a boy called Chortle from Chorlton-cum-Hardy. 

It starts with that well known historic building, which is our library, weaves into that the idea that its shape might just resemble a spaceship, throws in an alien and there is the  story.

So, everyone knows that Chorlton Library was opened in 1914 and partly funded by that American steel magnate Andrew Carnegie.  

Few perhaps that the original plans travelled across the Atlantic in the Titanic, only getting as far as an iceberg, thereby delaying the building of the library till new plans could be sent to Mr. Carnegie for his approval.

And I doubt anyone will be able to identify who were the inspiration for the stone heads which flank the entrance.

But if you come along to the launch at Chorlton Library on November 26th at 3.45 pm you can be part of the story, join in the fun and get a free copy of the book while stocks last.

And that is it. 

Children of all ages are welcome; it won’t cost a thing and will be fun.

Location; Chorlton Library, Manchester Road

Pictures; the launch poster by Peter Topping, strange faces and an entrance, from the collection of Andrew Simpson, 2026

*It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife..." Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice 1813