Comox Estuary Featured in "The Interlopers" Children's Book by Local Writer/Illustrator Author Marlet Ashley and illustrator Kate Brown are two local newcomers to the valley who were so awed by the Comox Estuary and its waterfowl that they got together to write a series of five children's books collectively titled Revelry On The Estuary. The first story in the collection is titled "The Interlopers" and it is written from the point of view of the avian residents of the estuary. Kate and Marlet drew from Kate's observation of the ducks, swans, herons, and other birds on the water just outside her door in Courtenay. She recorded the various waterfowl on hand-painted mugs, souvenirs she gave away to guests. Kate related the antics of the birds to author Marlet Ashley, and from there, the stories took shape. "The Interlopers" introduces readers to characters such as Erwyn Eagle, Penelope Sandpiper, Gabby Gull, and Henri Heron, among others, who will be featured in stories to be released in the future. These characters engage in antics that touch on camaraderie and adventure and include a subtle philosophical perspective that nature, especially in the Comox Estuary, is important and must be protected.