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Storytelling seems to be hardwired into our collective psyche. From the oral traditions of Norse sagas and the histories handed down in Native American and Australian communities, via the myths and legends of ancient Greece and Rome, to today’s soap operas, people like a good story. So is there any psychological value to the individual of reading, hearing or telling tales? Award-winning children’s writer Geraldine McCaughrean (right) and child psychotherapist Gerry Byrne seem to think there is.

\"'Of course I can see you!' said [Gracie], beaming. The ghosts were aghast. They turned to each other, bewildered, panicky [. . .] 'Is she a new one?' 'Is she one of us?'\" The afterword is revelatory. It was the artistic director of Margate's Theatre Royal who suggested [Geraldine McCaughrean] write a book \"in praise of the town, past and present, created with the help of the local people\". Suddenly, the conceit of bringing together a town's past, present and future in a haunted theatre makes complete sense. And what a fantastic and inspiring idea to unite a community and a children's author in this way. The Margations must be thrilled with this charming and skilful story, woven together from their fact and McCaughrean's fiction. Every town deserves to have its own story told: let's hope the idea catches on.

Pittipat's Saucer of Moon by Geraldine McCaughrean, illustrated by Maria Nilsson. Publisher Hodder Price Pounds 6.99 PITTIPAT is a little black cat who wants to follow his brothers and sisters to the Moon because it is made of cream.

EDS: Embargoed for use Monday, Oct. 30 or later. Wednesday and Thursday in copy refers to Nov. 1 and 2