Entertainment
31 October, 2025
Author reins in ‘Stormy Normy’
CAIRNS readers will soon meet the latest adventure of 'Stormy Normy', the beloved brumby colt, as local author Leisa Fail returns to the Far North to launch the third book in her children’s chapter book series, 'Stormy Normy Goes Reining'.
Set in the stunning Goldsborough and Tully regions, the book follows Stormy Normy as he learns the western sport of reining and dreams of competing at the Tamworth National Reining Show.
Along the way, he navigates change, family and lessons in personal growth that Mrs Fail hopes will resonate with young readers.
“My horse, Storm, was a brumby I purchased from Western Queensland, and after moving to Goldsborough and living there for 13 years, the area naturally became the backdrop for the story,” Mrs Fail told Cairns Local News.
“It’s a beautiful spot and kids get to see places in our own backyard rather than having to interpret American settings and language.”
Reining, the central sport in the story, is presented in a way that’s accessible to children.
“It’s about making the descriptions detailed enough that kids can understand without bogging them down,” Mrs Fail said.
Mrs Fail also shared the emotional inspiration behind the book.
“There’s a scene where Stormy Normy might not compete anymore and it’s about deciding on what to do next.
“That moment was very moving for me, because it mirrors my real experience when Storm retired earlier than expected,” she said.
The author will host events across the Far North to celebrate the launch:
Babinda Library – Friday 31 October, 3.30-4.30pm
The Chambers (Watkins Room), Cairns – Sunday 2 November, 10–11am
Mission Beach Library – Monday 3 November, 3.30-4.30 pm.
Mrs Fail will also present at Gordonvale and Tully state schools, connecting young readers with the landscapes that inspired her series.
Copies of the book will be available at local libraries, independent bookstores and online through retailers including Amazon and Fishpond.
