Bazil’s Story
Bazil The Bean is the creation of West Yorkshire businessman Andrew Garside who has decided to broaden his focus from buildings to children’s books.
Through the stories of this young person with a love of baked beans, Andy wants to help children (and their parents, carers and grandparents) to discover the enjoyment of reading stories of friendship and fun.
The 59-year old from Halifax, has been developing Bazil ever since imagining new stories for his three children decades ago.
Recently re-telling them to his grandchildren, and seeing their enthusiasm, spurred him on to capture these moments within his books to now share with others.
Enlisting the support of family, friends and finding an illustrator with a shared passion, he has developed a series of books which tell charming, funny, heartwarming stories of a young boy who loves eating baked beans.
Andy wants to use the books to make reading and storytelling experiences compelling and fun for all, helping families to strengthen bonds and reinforce learning through books.
He is also pledging to give some of any money made from selling the book to support those living with autism and ADHD, something he has lived experience of.
“I want to make sure every Bazil The Bean story is full of laughter, friendship and plenty of fun to show the joy of friendship, adventure and discovery that is so important whatever your age and whatever your background”.
”Every story aims to hold every child’s hand, showing them there is nothing to fear from any situation, and bringing them closer to the grown-ups around them.”
“Having read these stories with those closest to me, I now want to share them with the world and I hope everyone enjoys reading, giggling and talking about Bazil’s bean-fuelled experiences together.”
The books are illustrated by Denise Ainsworth, a designer and teacher who used retirement to do an MA in Children’s Book Illustration. She has turned Andrew’s initial sketches and ideas into beautiful artwork, bringing Bazil, his family and friends to life.