A local tale with a royal twist
Merseyside, UK – Actor Christopher Lee-Power is proudly supporting fellow Liverpudlian Gill McCabe and her delightful new children’s book, The Adventures of Roger the Royal Runaway – a funny, heartwarming tale filled with royal mischief, Scouse humour, and lessons about belonging, bravery, and kindness.
A magical reading in Garston
Lee-Power recently filmed a special reading of the book at Solomon’s Tap Room in Garston, where he brought to life the story of Roger – a posh, talking mouse who claims to be a runaway from Buckingham Palace. When seven-year-old Belle discovers him hiding in an old school desk, their unlikely friendship sparks a series of magical and meaningful adventures through the streets of Liverpool.
“Gill’s book is brilliant,” says Lee-Power. “The story is clever, funny, and moving – showing how friendship, love, and support can help us thrive, even when life throws challenges our way. It’s highly recommended for children, families, and anyone who enjoys a story full of heart, laughter, and important life lessons.”
Real-life inspiration!
Gill McCabe, who grew up in Liverpool and worked as a Legal Advisor at Liverpool Magistrates’ Courts, was inspired to write the story after years of supporting children with different learning needs. “I wanted to write something that made children laugh and feel brave,” she explains. “Liverpool has so much warmth and humour, and I wanted that spirit to shine through. Roger’s story is about finding where you belong – and sometimes, home isn’t where you start, it’s where your heart settles.”
Finding their voices: Shared challenges and triumphs
Both McCabe and Lee-Power share something deeply personal – they each experienced speech difficulties growing up. McCabe’s work promoting literacy and inclusion in schools led her to write stories that help children find their voices, while Lee-Power’s own journey from childhood challenges to professional success has inspired many.
“As a child, I was diagnosed with hyperactivity and speech problems, which affected my education,” says Lee-Power. “I found it difficult to spell and understand grammar, leaving school without qualifications. Later in life, I worked with a mentor who helped me refine my voice. Through hard work and dedication, I graduated with an Oxford Diploma in Acting. That experience taught me never to give up – and I think that’s what makes Gill’s book so powerful. It’s about resilience, heart, and hope.”
Lee-Power has enjoyed a distinguished career in film, television, theatre, and narration. He has performed in Shakespearean productions including Macbeth and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (as Oberon), and recently collaborated with a BAFTA-winning director in the stage play One Night, portraying The General. He will soon appear as Dr. Langford in the upcoming feature film The Death of Michael Myers.
Liverpool spirit on every page
The Adventures of Roger the Royal Runaway captures the heart of Liverpool – full of humour, warmth, and Scouse spirit. As Roger, now affectionately renamed Scouse, finds his place in Belle’s world, the story reminds readers that family and friendship can come from the most unexpected places.
“It’s a story about heart, humour, and hope,” Lee-Power adds. “Gill has written something truly special – and I’m honoured to help bring Roger’s world to life.”
The Adventures of Roger the Royal Runaway by Gill McCabe is available and there is a version on Amazon with both LFC and EFC themed editions.
Pictures provided by Christopher Lee-Power
