CHILDREN S author Raynor Tapia hopes for big things now her Tom McGuire Adventures series is being compared to the writings of JK Rowling and Terry Pratchett, writes Glenn McMahon. Mrs Tapia, a former IT teacher, of Langham Gardens, North Wembley, just r

CHILDREN'S author Raynor Tapia hopes for big things now her Tom McGuire Adventures series is being compared to the writings of JK Rowling and Terry Pratchett, writes Glenn McMahon.

Mrs Tapia, a former IT teacher, of Langham Gardens, North Wembley, just released Morkann's Revenge, the second instalment in the fantasy adventure and is busy with book signings.

Ms Tapia, 37, wants her books to teach children that good always triumphs over evil but stressed readers of all ages will enjoy it.

Morkann's Revenge is a coming-of-age tale about Tom's older brother, James, who realises he must be a better older brother and act responsibly before getting down to the serious business of saving a princess.

The book follows The Bard of Typheousina, where 10-year-old Tom discovers a magical place at school which takes him to a parallel world. He must rescue the oppressed U-Targs from the evil serpent - a metaphor for people oppressed by occupiers or dictators.

There are plans to release a book a year during the next three years, but Mrs Tapia is looking for a new publisher after, she claims, getting little support since the books went into print.

Mrs Tapia organised signings at bookshops, school visits and attended book and literary fairs around the world. And all this was inspired by a headteacher's off-the-cuff remark.

She said: "I wrote a school play for her and she liked it so much she said I should write a book. I don't know if she meant it, but I took it and am following my dream.