A Wellington police officer-turned-author has released her second children's book - inspired by her real-life work as a dog handler.
"The Adventures of Ace" was launched at the police dog training centre on Friday with a little help from some aspiring writers.
Senior Constable Sue Burridge and her police dog Hades are used to being on the run chasing criminals.
But they took time out from that for Ms Burridge's other passion - writing.
The book follows fictional police dog handler Maddy and her canine companion Ace - it's illustrated by fellow police officer Sergeant Stephen Guy.
A group of aspiring writers from Ngati Toi Primary School helped Ms Burridge launch the book - reciting their favourite parts.
She has always wanted to write for children - but when she started five years ago - she didn't know what story she should tell.
"Someone suggested I write about what I know and when I did, the ideas just started coming quick and fast," she says.
Hades has been her muse for this book - and 12 years as a police dog handler have provided plenty of material but Ms Burridge also weaves in a lot of fiction.
And some life lessons for her young audiences - about confronting bullies and conquering your fears.
Police dog Hades is meant to retire by the end of the year so Sue will be getting her third dog - and perhaps inspiration for her third book.
She hopes her writing will also inspire children to read and write.
Newshub.
