An aspiring author from Newcastle is marking National Japan Day (11 February) by announcing her debut children’s book, based on her own cycle tour of Japan.
Amelia Neagle, 41, has written Lilly & Bo: To Japan We Go!, which tells the story of two bikes who magically travel to Japan – exploring the varied culture, cuisine and landscape.
The book was brought to life through a six-month creative process in partnership with TAUK Publishing.
“National Japan Day felt like the perfect moment to announce my book,” said Amelia, who completed a cycling tour of the country in 2019.
“It’s a day for celebrating the beauty of Japan and the kindness of its people, which I experienced first-hand.‘Cycling was such a special way to see everything the country has to offer – from sumo wrestling, shinkansen trains and bears to pagodas, temples and Mount Fuji. Through this children’s book, I wanted to share those experiences while also inspiring young readers to embrace exploration and adventure – two things that are very important to me.”
The original idea came to Amelia while she was in the saddle and reflects both her love of cycling and her personal mission to show that even distant countries can be discovered by bike.
“It just goes to show that spending time in nature is good for creativity!” said Amelia, who writes under the pen name A.J. Tor.
“Once my son was born, I felt compelled to re-tell our trip for him to enjoy. I hope it will inspire curiosity in other countries and encourage children to go on adventures of their own.”
Amelia took a career break from the civil service last year to spend more time with her son before he starts school. Since then, she has balanced writing with self-employed work; managing two allotments; overcoming personal health challenges; and being a mum.
“Writing a book has been a long-held ambition and I am grateful to everyone who has played a part in helping me to achieve it,” said Amelia.
“In particular, I would like to thank Estelle Maher, Operations Manager at TAUK Publishing, for her continued support, and Lisa Williams, the illustrator, who has truly brought Lilly & Bo to life.”
The book will have its official Amazon launch on World Book Day 2026 (Friday, 6 March).
Amelia plans to celebrate the occasion by eating Takoyaki – octopus balls – at St. Sushi on Westgate Road.
“I am most excited to be able to hold the book in my hands and read it to my son,” she added.
“That will be a very special moment for both of us.”
Estelle Maher said:
“Becoming an author is something lots of people dream of, but Amelia has put in the hard work to turn her book idea into a reality. We could not be prouder of Amelia and we encourage everyone to buy the book and help make Lilly & Bo: To Japan We Go! an Amazon success story!”
For more information, visit A.J.Tor on Tiktok, Lilly & Bo on Facebook or search Lilly & Bo: To Japan We Go! on Amazon on 6 March.
