Seagoat and the Circus Trainer

Tea Harder Bay is a fictional, coastal location that is a cross between the beach scene on an idyllic Caribbean island and that of an English seaside resort. One would imagine the weather usually to be glorious, but with the occasional tropical thunderstorms. It possesses a bustling harbour, with an informal feel to it, blending holiday makers and locals alike.

Seagoat has the head of a human and the body of a goat. Uniquely, he possesses both human and animal qualities. He is both impulsive and instinctive. For example, he hunts for his food and rifles through litter. But he also has reason and conversation. He also responds in the same way as a human does in certain situations. Seagoat chose to accept Charles’ invitation to hunt for treasure with him. He is a lovable character, who wears his heart on his sleeve and is desperate to please. He makes fundamental mistakes. He is lively, silly and impulsive. Seagoat is not afraid to show emotion.

Charles Chatty is a cat who presents himself to Seagoat as someone who hunts for treasure. On hearing about Seagoat’s trade, he pretends to have a faulty submarine and asks Seagoat to fix it for him. Charles then presents him with an amazing offer - to join him on one of his treasure hunting adventures. Despite initial reluctance, Seagoat gives in to temptation and agrees. Charles manages to coax him onto his boat, with the promise of a share of any treasure found, and they embark on their journey. But his true identity begins to become apparent with the way he acts and the things he says…

Other characters include the mystical horses, dancing toenail, Max the fox and the lasagne tree.

Jimmer Jupiter, an ordinary schoolboy, is Seagoat’s ‘owner’ and has a degree of influence over his life. Although Seagoat lives alone in his shack, Jimmer lives very close by and they meet up daily.

Seagoat and the Circus Trainer is a story touching on the issues of friendship, comradery and good / bad treatment of others. It demonstrates that the choices we make in life always lead to consequences. The story is presented in a light hearted way, and humour is used where it is deemed appropriate.