New author picks up trade in her 80s

“You’re never to old to try something new.”

That’s according to 82-year-old Jean Lafleur, a New Sudbury resident who has recently released her second book, a children’s novel, entitled Kevin and Askem, An Awesome Twosome.

The 102-page story chronicles the adventures of Kevin, an eight-year-old boy, and his new canine friend, Askem. It is the first of what Lafleur said will eventually be a 10-part series.

Lafleur said divine intuition inspired her to write a children’s book about a dog.

“I’ve always loved dogs,” she said.

She even had her own Askem — a dog she bought as a puppy, who lived with Jean and her husband, well into his senior years.

“Everybody in New Sudbury heard my dog’s name,” she said, as she recalled the times she would be out looking for the mischievous dog.

The next book in the series is due out around Christmas 2010.

Even though Lafleur said she isn’t the finest speller, working with her editor Shirley Baxter has helped her turn her ideas into stories that others can enjoy.

“It’s just amazing what came out of my mind,” Lafleur said.

Baxter, a retired school teacher, has proofread all of Lafleur’s work. They are working on another collaboration titled Angels in Disguise.

The more serious novel is a tribute to the most memorable people in Lafleur’s life.

Her first novel, Heaven’s for Giving, was an autobiography about the hardships she has endured in her lifetime.

Beginning her writing career so late in life, Lafleur hopes to inspire other seniors.

“You’re never too old to follow a dream,” she said.

Lafleur and Baxter encourage other seniors to stay on top of the abilities they have developed during their lifetimes.
“We have been honing our skills for decades,” Baxter said.

Lafleur will host a book signing for Kevin and Askem, An Awesome Twosome, at Coles in the New Sudbury Centre on June 26, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.

The novel, which includes an CD version of the story, is available at Coles, Chapters, Small Things Arts and Crafts and the SPCA. For every book purchased at the SPCA, Lafleur will donate $2 to the organization.