CHRISTMAS has come early for a budding Aberdour author with the publication of her first book.

Joanna Kerr, 18, had her festive tale, 'I Can Do it Myself!', published today (Thursday).

It tells the story of a strong-willed elf, Erwin, who is super-excited for the big day and follows his adventures as he starts in his dream job of Santa's trusty head elf.

The former Inverkeithing High pupil, who is heading to Glasgow Caledonian University in September to study multi-media journalism, came up with the idea of the book at the beginning of lockdown.

“I came up with the initial idea – and then the whole thing quickly grew arms and legs … and a pointy hat. Hence Erwin the Elf was born,” she said. "It sort of came about randomly. It was not something I planned on doing.

“I wanted to write something that captured the excitement of Christmas as it is by far my favourite time of year. This year, the build-up will be starting even earlier than usual!

“Erwin’s catchphrase – ‘I can do it myself’ – is one I used myself when I was younger … or so my parents tell me!"

After choosing an illustrator, Joanna is now eagerly awaiting a delivery of her new book – and is already thinking about a second.

"I am very excited. It has been quite a long time in the publishing process," she added. "I have always written stuff when I was younger. I used to write stories on Google docs and it is something I have always loved to do.

"A few ideas are already coming so I might write something soon."

'I Can Do It Myself!' can be purchased via publisher Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie's website while Joanna is hoping local bookshops will also sell them in the coming months.