Exeter Author’s Debut Children’s Book Named English-language Book of the Month, Supports Dementia Charity

Peta Hands, an author based in Exeter, has seen her first children’s book, Sissy Snagertooth and Phylis, honoured as the English-language Children’s Book of the Month by the Books Council of Wales.

The novel was created during a difficult chapter in Hands’ life, following her husband’s diagnosis with Lewy body dementia in 2018. Writing the book provided her with a vital escape from the challenges she faced, and it has since become a key part of her campaign to raise awareness and funds for the Lewy Body Society.

Hands recalls, “In 2018, my husband was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, and I felt so helpless. Writing became an escape from the dreadful reality of my husband’s illness. I never intended to try to publish Sissy Snagertooth and Phylis, but then I got involved with the Lewy Body Society, and it gave me a sense of purpose.”

Her initial fundraising initiative, “A Scarf For Lewy,” invited volunteers to knit thousands of scarves to encircle the Royal Albert Hall. Although the project was delayed by the pandemic, the collective effort symbolised a simple yet powerful act of solidarity. “I wanted to do something that anyone could take part in. Something simple, yet meaningful. That’s when it came to me: lots of people can knit a scarf. One scarf alone wouldn’t make much of an impact, but what if hundreds of people joined in? I could stitch them together into something truly spectacular,” Hands explained.

After completing the scarf project, Hands turned her attention to publishing her novel to further support the Lewy Body Society. The story follows Herbert Long, a boy distinguished by his white hair, pale skin, and ice-blue eyes, who adopts the name Sissy Snagertooth after an accident leaves him with jagged front teeth. Living with his eccentric grandfather, Sissy befriends Phylis, a flatulent bull terrier, and together they embark on a daring mission to recover ninety-four rare tortoises stolen from a family acquaintance. The adventure takes a dangerous turn when the thief’s identity is uncovered.

Shaun Russell, Head of Publishing at Candy Jar Books, recognised the book’s appeal early on. “I was captivated by the story’s warmth, humour, and heart,” he said. “It’s a wonderfully imaginative adventure and a fantastic debut.”

The accolade from the Books Council of Wales in March 2026 is expected to broaden the book’s reach significantly.

Lewy body dementia affects an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 people in the UK. While Sissy Snagertooth and Phylis is a light-hearted tale, Hands hopes it will contribute to raising awareness and support for those impacted by the disease.

All profits from the book’s sales will be donated to the Lewy Body Society. “Every little helps,” Hands emphasised.

Sissy Snagertooth and Phylis is available at bookshops across the UK.