Author of “Big Panda and Tiny Dragon” Sets Up Animal Sanctuary in Swansea

Self-taught artist and writer James Norbury, author of “Big Panda,” has embarked on a mission to create an animal sanctuary in Swansea, Wales. Norbury’s journey from living below the poverty line to becoming a celebrated author and dedicated animal advocate is a testament to the power of determination and the human spirit.

James Norbury’s path to success was far from conventional. After facing multiple rejections from literary agents, he self-published his book, “Big Panda,” in 2021. Little did he know that this decision would change the course of his life. A leading publisher recognized the book’s potential, offering him a six-figure deal despite it being his debut as an author. Inspired by this unexpected turn of events, Norbury made a heartfelt promise to invest his earnings into establishing an animal sanctuary.

Now, as “Big Panda” continues to sell hundreds of thousands of copies worldwide, James Norbury and his wife, Ruth, are fulfilling their pledge to create a sanctuary in Swansea. This sanctuary aims to provide a haven of peace, healing, and well-being for both animals and people alike. Norbury eloquently describes it as a “hospital for the soul,” emphasizing the importance of holistic healing.

Funding for this noble project has been made possible by the proceeds from the book, a collection of charming drawings featuring a panda and a dragon coming together as friends to navigate challenges.

The success of his drawings and proverbs on social media led to numerous requests for calendars and postcards, culminating in the self-publication of his first book. It was then that a literary agent recognized the mainstream potential of his work, leading to the global success he enjoys today.

Norbury’s next endeavor, “The Cat Who Taught Zen,” is complete with illustrations and proverbs and tells the story of a wise cat who uses ancient Zen stories to aid other creatures, including a tiger. Through these tales, Norbury imparts a valuable message of interconnectedness and personal growth.

James Norbury’s journey is a remarkable example of transformation and generosity. Despite facing initial rejection and financial hardship, he has risen to become an accomplished author and an advocate for both animals and human well-being. His commitment to creating a sanctuary in Swansea is a testament to the positive impact that one person’s dedication and compassion can have on the world.

Buy Big Panda and Tiny Dragon here. 

Related Content:

• 14-Year-Old Author’s Book Takes a Stand Against Bullies
• New Book Explains Why Animals Enjoy Living in Trees and Why Trees Like Them Too
• 10 Books Showing The Emotional Intelligence Of Animals

Easy Ways to Help the Planet:

• Eat Less Meat: Download Food Monster, the largest plant-based Recipe app on the App Store, to help reduce your environmental footprint, save animals and get healthy. You can also buy a hard or soft copy of our favorite vegan cookbooks.
• Reduce Your Fast Fashion Footprint: Take initiative by standing up against fast fashion Pollution and supporting sustainable and circular brands like Tiny Rescue that raise awareness around important issues through recycled zero-waste clothing designed to be returned and remade over and over again.
• Support Independent Media: Being publicly funded gives us a greater chance to continue providing you with high-quality content. Please consider supporting us by donating!
• Sign a Petition: Your voice matters! Help turn petitions into victories by signing the latest list of must-sign petitions to help people, animals, and the planet.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest news and important stories involving animals, the environment, sustainable living, food, health, and human interest topics by subscribing to our newsletter!
• Do What You Can: Reduce waste, plant trees, eat local, travel responsibly, reuse stuff, say no to single-use plastics, recycle, vote smart, switch to cold water laundry, divest from fossil fuels, save water, shop wisely, Donate if you can, grow your food, volunteer, conserve energy, compost, and don’t forget about the microplastics and microbeads lurking in common household and personal care products!