Chloe Aitken: Award winning short story by Midlothian teen pays tribute to inspiring brother who has autism

Aspiring author Chloe Aitken penned a story called ‘My Brother the Superhero’ and entered it into a writing competition held by Scottish company Crieff Hydro Hotels.

Her story is about her brother Charlie who has autism and lives life to the fullest.

Author and Judge Helen Grant added: “This story absolutely stood out as being full of heart.

"Chloe talks about her brother Charlie, and all the positive things he brings to life.

"I like the fact that this story begins and ends with the concept of Charlie as a superhero.

"Chloe deftly describes her impressions of life with her brother and it was a story I kept thinking about.”

As a prize, the 14-year-old’s story will feature in a limited edition bedtime storybook, available at all eight hotels in the Crieff Hydro Family.

It will be illustrated by author Jon Bishop, known as The Grey Earl, who said: “I used to draw superheroes a lot when I started out as an illustrator, so I can’t wait to revisit those ideas and it will be a real privilege to bring life to Chloe’s words and illustrate Charlie as a superhero.”

Chloe’s story was one of 300 entries from across the UK, and independent judges, authors John Bray, Helen Grant and Susy McPhee picked 30 to go into the bedtime story book.

Only three of the stories will have theirs illustrated, and Chloe was one of these three.

Nic Oldham, Head of Customer and Commercial at Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels, said: “We were so impressed with the creativity and imagination of the children who entered our competition which visitors will be able to see for themselves in the storybook when it arrives at our hotels.

"Thank you again to everyone who entered and special congratulations to Chloe for being crowned our 12-14 age category winner.”

Work will begin shortly to create the book for summer and if restrictions allow, shortlisted entries will be welcomed to a Mini Book Festival at Crieff Hydro Hotel in July.

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