Fuzzy Climbed a Steep Mountain was released by Tulgeen’s INSYNC creative writers - Cornelius Moon, Graham Henkel, Sarah Carr, Anne Russell and Catherine Williams - on Friday, December 4 at Candelo Books in Bega.

“They are so proud of themselves and I am so proud of them, they have just done an amazing job,” the group’s facilitator Chris Boyle said. 

“It gives them a sense of self worth, they feel really good about themselves and what they can do.

“It’s a chance for them to showcase their abilities and use their imagination.” 

Writing the book also gave the group the chance to have discussions with each other over moral issues, such as whether to include swearing – “mongrel” was approved but “heck” did not make the cut – as well as on the issue of characters dying. 

The story follows a bear called Fuzzy, who climbs a steep mountain, flies away and has adventures with various characters he meets along the way such as pirates.

The creative process began with the writers’ thoughts being digitally recorded and when they listened back to the emerging story illustrations were drawn to go with the ideas and it was discussed which ideas to include. 

Ms Boyle said each participant had different abilities and ways of thinking, for instance Mr Henkel would include facts in the story while Ms Carr and Ms Williams would let their imaginations run wild to come up with new ideas. 

The launch was also held to celebrate International Day of People with Disability.

The book is available from Candelo Books or from Tulgeen on 6499 0847 and is $35.

Money from the sales will go towards helping kick start the next creative writing project of the group.