Gramps had what they call a ‘Chequered Career’ which he insists on regaling to his sceptical grandson. He’s been a stuntman and a deep-sea diver, but his most exciting, and discombobulating, career was when he was a magician. Known as The Astounding Alfredo, and he became famous throughout the world, especially for the disappearing trick with his dove – Montgomery, The Mysterious Bird of Mystery.

Unfortunately, Montgomery is not just mysterious, but malevolent, envious and ambitious. And Gramps and Montgomery discover that fame has a way of changing people – and places.

Expect the unexpected and believe the unbelievable in this hilarious debut novel from acclaimed animator Antony Elworthy.