Reading Archives - Parenting, Mental Health & Lifestyle

Sara Barnes’ book, The Cold Fix

The Cold Fix is about the healing power of cold water immersion in overcoming physical and mental pain. Or anguish including osteoarthritis, seasonal sadness, migraines, alcoholism and overthinking. It’s about growing older and exploring new opportunities; menopause, body image and confidence.

My thoughts

When reading the book, my initial thought was that I was intrigued as to why people do this and I find it fascinating that such an extreme activity can help someone mentally.

I particularly like the sensory and meditative experience which comes with this technique. It feels similar to how I probably feel when doing meditation.

“Coming here on my own had indeed added a risk factor, but it had also motivated and driven me to climb, literally, out of my comfort zone and rediscover a world that had been out of my reach for too long”
Sara Barnes’ book, The Cold Fix

“The cold water has given me the key to unlock myself within a place I didn’t know existed: the community of cold-water swimmers right around the world. What binds us all together is the cold and how it makes us feel: brave enough to tackle even the toughest of life’s issues.”
Sara Barnes’ book, The Cold Fix

Buy the book

Amazon

Jo Moseley’s Stand-up Paddleboarding in Great Britain

Stand Up Paddleboarding is a guide to paddle boarding. However, Jo explains the sport has got her through grief, anxiety and empty nesting. It’s brought her identity back outside her roles as a mother, daughter, sister, and friend. And her commitment to the environment has strengthened. Back in 2019, she became the first woman aged 54 to stand up paddleboard coast to coast across northern England. Picking up litter and raising money for environmental charities.

My thoughts

The most striking thing about this book is the great images of places to visit. You feel transported there, and it’s wonderful. You are experiencing an adventure alongside reading about Jo’s story. There is a real variation in locations across the UK and I was glad to see some near where we live. It also makes me want to visit the places I haven’t visited and take in the scenery for myself.

The book also includes practical tips on how to get started, if you’re interested in starting your stand-up paddle-boarding journey

“A chance to walk on water, and I hope, appreciate that we all belong there too.”
Jo Moseley’s Stand-up Paddleboarding in Great Britain

Buy the book

Amazon

Michael Waters

You may remember me including Michael Waters in a previous blog post.

Buy the book

Amazon

Recent projects

He has recently been writing for some projects, aiming to help young people with their mental health. If you follow my blog, you will know I am totally on board with this. The current cost of living situation we are facing in the UK is only going to increase mental health problems among young people. Ultimately, it is up to us to raise awareness.

One is about how becoming guise-wise can really help reduce the mental health issues of young people (and not so young!)

Why? Because so many are the result of comparing ourselves to others, often obsessively,
and to a disproportionate emphasis on relatively minor or very specific but not all-defining
differences. Young people are especially prone to these practices.
Supposing I’m a teenager preoccupied with my gender identity. Maybe I suspect I’m
different in this respect from most of my friends. At one time, gender identity was not an
issue for all but a tiny number of kids. Now it’s an issue for a lot, but that’s not the main
point. The main point is that if I am a teenager with gender identity concerns then part of
that will involve placing myself on a spectrum of gender gradations. I’m defining myself by
what I am not and I’m probably defining my whole self primarily in terms of gender identity
markers. This means that I’m not foregrounding all the many things I share with my peers –
other aspects of identity, beliefs, preferences, interests and hosts of others that I share with
everybody on the planet. Rather, I’m over-focusing on one thing that’s distinctive about me,
one particular difference.
Becoming-Guise-Wise:
How to dissolve the mental health issues of the young – Dr Michael Waters

The other is about making commonality-first, not difference-first how we should best respond to others – this would be the best legacy for the Queen since this is what she did in her life

She experienced diversity, more than anyone who has ever lived. No one else has been up as close and personal to such a variety of individuals in such a variety of settings. No one else has had more first-hand experience of as many different social and cultural groups. Who else has made official visits to over 117 countries and carried out over 21,000 official engagements, to say nothing of walkabouts and other unscripted exchanges? It’s also clear that she cared deeply for many of those to whom the word “diversity” is usually applied – minorities and the marginalised.
The Queen’s Legacy: Commonality-First – Dr Michael Waters

Workbooks for managing anxiety

I had to share the workbooks that personally helped me with managing anxiety, during the down periods in my life. I still have these on the shelf by my workspace. They proved to be so beneficial in my time of need.

Final thoughts

I hope you found these tools for managing helpful anxiety. Maybe a book you want to purchase something for yourself or a loved one?

Let me know your favourite book or course – I would love to hear from you in the comments.

Too Many Moose by Kathy Sherman – MCA review

17 August 2024 , 0 comments

A rip-roaring moose family reunion songbook starring one extremely surprised host and exactly 256 moose (no more, no less).

How many moose is too many moose? Two? Four? Eight? Sixteen? What happens when a herd of moose invites themselves over? In Too Many Moose, a herd of moose have a rip-roaring family reunion full of dancing, cartwheels, pillow fights and more!

This book will push your imagination to the ridiculous with energetic children’s music, oddball humour and endearing, lively animal characters that dive into comical antics.
Tiny Tree Books

Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for other people.

Buy the book

Why Bluey Is Heartwarming & Geared Towards The Whole Family

The review

I was so excited to read this book with my little one. Unfortunately, when we pulled out the book to read together, she was in a little bit of a grumpy mood. But I knew this was the perfect time to read the book and instil some laughter into our evening.

The book did not disappoint. The little one was laughing her head off and she loved the rhyming element of the story.

This book has been added to our little shelf next to her bed and we will enjoy reading it many times in the future.

Cart Wheels & Pillow Fights

In Too Many Moose, a herd of moose have a rip-roaring family reunion full of dancing, cartwheels, pillow fights and more!

Every young child loves a fun tale of cartwheels and pillow fights. When we’re out and about playing in the grass and doing cartwheels, we are at our happiest. Our little one loves the day we change the bedsheets at home. She loves lying on the bed while we waft the sheets over her. Small simple pleasures in life and we could all learn a lot from the joy a child feels in these moments.

Want to read more about the joy of participating in childlike activities?

I love writing about how participating in childlike activities can help you mentally. We should all endeavour to inject more joy into our lives.

How to Explore Emotions With Your Toddler

Here are some blog posts you might be interested in:

Understanding Play Therapy: Benefits and Techniques

5 Fun Recipes To Bake With Kids – Mummy Conquering Anxiety

20 Relatable Bluey Parenting Moments We Love

The Anna’s Garden Blog Tour – Mummy Conquering Anxiety

Downloadable Worksheets and Learning Books for ages 4-7

Tips On How To Live Your Best – Most Positive Life

Summary

If you want to purchase a book for your family or maybe as a gift for someone, which is filled with joy, fun and laughter – this is the story for you!

Book Reviews

Whispa and the Waves by Ffion Jones and Elena Mascolo – MCA Review

22 July 2024 , 0 comments

Welcome to my post about Whispa and the Waves by Ffion Jones and Elena Mascolo. I am so glad you stopped by!

Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for other people

Inspired by a desire to help her daughter in her struggle with anxiety, Whispa and the Waves is a book that hopes to help children explore other ways of responding to these feelings, empowering them to overcome the waves and giving them the strength to calm the storm.
Tinytreebooks.com

Important topics in the public eye right now

If you follow my blog, you will know that a mental breakdown is what prompted me to start this blog, to help other people feel less alone when they are experiencing mental health challenges.

The mental health crisis amongst young people in the UK at the moment is well documented and something we should all be eager to resolve. Books like this – serve to educate young people and make them feel less alone. In this respect, we must share this book’s message far and wide.

Children having access to books

Another well-documented fact is that some children living in the UK currently don’t have access to books at home. As a family, we have always purchased books, mostly from charity shops. But my little one loves reading and we must make time to read books with her. Even though, like most families, family time is limited.

Exploring big emotions with children

The character in the book sounds very much like me. I still use my hypnotherapy recordings when I feel life becoming too much. These days, I feel more resilient and able to deal with the pressures and unexpected events life can sometimes throw at us. BUT it’s taken a lot of work to get to where I am now.

Imagine being a child. Research tells us can’t regulate emotions in the way an adult does. And still feeling some big emotions you may not understand. Books like this are vital in helping children have a visual display and a story to tell about a similar way they are feeling.

I’ve written on my blog before about handling toddler emotions. You can check out the posts below:

HELPING LITTLE KIDS MANAGE BIG EMOTIONS

HOW TO EXPLORE EMOTIONS WITH YOUR TODDLER

20 RELATABLE BLUEY PARENTING MOMENTS WE LOVE

Please go out and buy this book, recommend it to your local library or community centre – and spread a message of hope amongst children who might be struggling.
Sam – Founder – Mummy Conquering Anxiety blog

Some of the previous reviews published in the book corner section:

THE GIANT AT NUMBER TWO – BOOK REVIEW – MUMMY CONQUERING ANXIETY

LIVELY LILA BLOG TOUR – A DANCE OF HAPPY DISCOVERY – MUMMY CONQUERING ANXIETY

THE ANNA’S GARDEN BLOG TOUR – MUMMY CONQUERING ANXIETY

THE LONELY TIGER BY TERENIA EDWARDS, SEVERUS LIAN (ILLUSTRATOR)

Buy the book

Summary

Please go out and buy this book, recommend it to your local library or community centre – and spread a message of hope amongst children who might be struggling.

Book Corner, Reading, Writing

Why Attending A Literature Festival Is An Amazing Experience

5 October 2022 , 17 Comments

I love reading books and writing about everything in my life, and I also love participating in the stories other people have to share. As someone who loved the literature part of my English degree and still has the quotations book given to me as a prize by my headteacher as a teenager, soaking up literature is something I have continued into adulthood.

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A post shared by Sam Conquering Anxiety (@mummyconqueringanxiety)

Prior to setting up three blogs, I attended the local literature festival for as long as I can remember. On those days I arrange childcare and totally clear my schedule. Free to immerse myself in culture, and words. More importantly, to be in the company of other amazing creatives. I am now finding ways to travel further afield. It is time to share with you what I found when I searched for more opportunities to do something I love.

UK literature festivals to attend

Ilkley Literature Festival

7-23 October 2022

The festival website states –

We are the longest-running literature festival in the north and we celebrate all things reading and writing.

Book your tickets here.

Borderlines Carlisle Book Festival

4th October – 10th October 2022

The festival website states –

Borderlines is a not-for-profit event, now in its 7th year, run by volunteers who believe in community – and the joy of words. We deliver a Festival that balances bringing major national and international names to Carlisle with celebrating and showcasing fantastic local talent. We also run events and activities that encourage and inspire individual creativity.

Manchester Literature Festival

Fri 7 – Sun 23 October 2022

The festival website states –

Encounter incredible writers, actors, comedians, musicians, poets & change-makers. Fri 7 – Sun 23 October 2022. Featuring Edward Enninful, Rob Delaney, Ian Rankin & more!

Book your tickets here.

Verey Books – Pooley Bridge

This is another gem I found out about from contact with a publisher. What a mission this bookshop has –

We want to work with schools and the local community to promote new ideas and initiatives. Through book clubs, ‘walking’ book clubs, poetry slams, storytelling events, book launches and writers’ workshops – we seek to share knowledge, cause conversation and bring people together through the spoken and written word.

Check out all the events they have on here.

2022 Petworth Festival Literary Week

27 October – 6 November 2022 – BOX OFFICE OPEN FROM 28 SEPTEMBER 2022

The festival website states –

The Petworth Festival is a remarkable success story. Founded over 40 years ago by Lord Egremont and a group of like-minded local people, including the composer Robert Walker, an event which first straddled a weekend has now become a major fixture in the summer diary, not just locally but also throughout the region.

Book your tickets here.

Cheltenham Literature Festival

7 October 7 – 16 October 2022

The festival website states –

Cheltenham Literature Festival is the world’s first literature Festival, leading the way in celebrating the written and spoken word.

Book your tickets here.

Berwick Literary Festival

Some of the events are FREE to attend!

13 October – 16 October 2022

The festival website states –

A very warm welcome as we return to live events in Berwick at this year’s Festival. We are delighted to offer a varied and attractive programme that has a focus on Berwick and north-east England, a strong Scottish element, and an international aspect. We hope to entertain, to inform, and to encourage everyone with an interest in words and their expression. Over four days the 9th Festival will include both Zoom and live events around the town, using several new locations for the first time too. Central to north Northumberland and the eastern Scottish Borders, our walled town provides a stunning backdrop to very varied events.

Book your tickets here.

Stratford Literary Festival – Winter Weekend

11-13 November 2022

The festival website states –

Since 2008 we’ve been bringing you an exciting mixture of debate, ideas, celebrity author events, workshops and humour in spring and winter. We’re also a charity promoting the benefits of reading and writing on education, literacy and well-being in schools, the community and prisons.

The Festival is one of the most significant literary festivals in the UK, attracting thousands of people who share one passion: a love of books, writing and reading.

Book your tickets here.

Kendal Mountain Festival

17th November – 20th November

I have only recently heard about this festival, through contact with a publisher about reviewing some amazing writers who find new and creative ways to cope with anxiety. The festival website states –

Our vision is, and always has been, “To inspire more people to explore, respect and represent mountains, wilderness and their cultures” and today this seems more relevant and timely as ever.

Book your tickets here.

Hay Festival Winter Weekend

24th November – 27th November

A seasonal weekend of wonder! Join us for a very special Hay Festival Winter Weekend 24-27 November in the newly renovated Hay Castle. Priority booking opens to Friends of Hay Festival Tuesday 27 September. General booking opens Friday 30 September.

Book your tickets here.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed reading about my passion for reading and writing.

Have you been to a literature festival? Will you be booking one in the future?

LIVELY LILA BLOG TOUR – A DANCE OF HAPPY DISCOVERY – MUMMY CONQUERING ANXIETY

The Giant at Number Two – book review – Mummy Conquering Anxiety

21 May 2024 , 0 comments

You may have seen the recent social media post from Sam about taking a social media break. It’s time for a Daddy and little one takeover to review the recent book we were sent. The Giant at Number Two – book review – Mummy Conquering Anxiety.

Daisy-May is known to everyone as having a vivid imagination, so when she tells her family that there is a giant living on their street, as usual nobody believes her. Nobody that is, except her Gran!
Tiny Tree Books

The Giant at Number Two - book review - Mummy Conquering Anxiety

Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for other people.

Some of the previous reviews Sam has published

THE ANNA’S GARDEN BLOG TOUR – MUMMY CONQUERING ANXIETY

THE LONELY TIGER BY TERENIA EDWARDS, SEVERUS LIAN (ILLUSTRATOR)

A little tribute

We are very thankful for such a supportive Mummy & wife. This blog and her other blogs are very special to her and it’s something she thrives on doing in her spare time.

The Giant at Number Two is a beautifully illustrated book, inspired by classic fairytales and with a wonderfully nostalgic feel.
Daisy-May is known to everyone as having a vivid imagination, so when she tells her family that there is a giant living on their street, as usual nobody believes her. Nobody that is, except her Gran!

Excited that there may be a giant living in the neighbourhood (especially one that wears funny masks) they form a plan to find out all they can about him, in order to lure him into a trap. But is there really a giant living next door… and are giants as scary as the stories tell us?

The Giant at Number Two blends traditional storytelling with a self-referential twist that both children and parents will love, and will surely be a welcome addition to any family bookshelf.
Courtesy of Amazon

Buy the book

The Giant at Number Two – book review – Mummy Conquering Anxiety. Shall we get on with the review?

Reviewing the book

My little girl loves to read a book. Mummy is better at it, but when asked, I love to read a book with her before bed, and this one was great to read.

Wearing a mask to hide the real us

Sam has written in the recent book reviews how these themes resonate with our family. It is important to post honest content that other people can relate this. After all, this is how the blog Mummy Conquering Anxiety was born.

Here are some of the snippets from the recent book reviews:

Snippet from – LIVELY LILA BLOG TOUR – A DANCE OF HAPPY DISCOVERY – MUMMY CONQUERING ANXIETY

ADHD is something which impacts our family. And therefore, it’s a subject we openly discuss with our child. Explaining to her that sometimes people think differently, due to how their brains operate and that is okay.
We also incorporate gentle parenting into our parenting style. As such, we explain that people in her class can react differently due to their upbringing or emotions. And that people don’t always mean what they say. They cannot control how they behave and apologising is the way forward. We regularly apologise to my little one, if it’s needed. The message is that we are all human and nobody is perfect.
We want her to embrace everyone’s differences and uniqueness.
Lively Lila Book Review – Mummy Conquering Anxiety

Snippet from – THE ANNA’S GARDEN BLOG TOUR – MUMMY CONQUERING ANXIETY

Neurodivergence factors into our family. It’s something we are open and honest about with her – explaining that sometimes another person’s brain may work differently. And that is completely okay. Something to be celebrated.
Anna’s Garden Book Review – Mummy Conquering Anxiety

Snippet from – THE LONELY TIGER BY TERENIA EDWARDS, SEVERUS LIAN (ILLUSTRATOR)

I particularly love the sentiment that different is good. And it’s what makes you unique. Also, seeing the image of you that a friend of family member sees, can change the way you think about yourself.
Such a heartwarming book, with a special, much-needed message. Especially in today’s world.
The Lonely Tiger Book Review – Mummy Conquering Anxiety

The publisher

Tiny Tree is an independent children’s book imprint based in Manchester, UK: specialising in
children’s picture books, chapter books, and YA. Tiny Tree books are written for
children, encouraging them to be themselves and live their own truths. In 2023 Tiny Tree was
acquired by publisher Andrews UK.

For more information please contact Anthony Barlow, Publicity & Marketing Manager.

How the themes in the book relate to us

The little one is learning about growth, life cycles and everything in nature at school this term. They hatched their butterflies and recently let them go in the school playground. We are reading Monkey Puzzle, by Julia Donaldson and also Jack & The Beanstalk.

My fave parts of the book

My absolute favourite part of the book is the Gran who totally believes everything Daisy-May says and even has at midnight steakout to seek out the giant. She also makes sure he isn’t a bad giant.

Summary

Having read through Sam’s previous boon reviews, these books have a way of resonating with us as a family. For that reason, I would encourage you to check out Tiny Tree Books and the amazing children’s books they publish.

These stories help us to broach difficult topics with our little one in a child-friendly way.

THE ANNA’S GARDEN BLOG TOUR – MUMMY CONQUERING ANXIETY

Lively Lila Blog Tour – A Dance Of Happy Discovery – Mummy Conquering Anxiety

27 April 2024 , 0 comments

I am thrilled to take part in the Lively Lila blog tour. And to introduce you to such a special book. Today, I will be talking about this amazing children’s book.

Embrace Lila’s unique sparkle as she twirls through life’s ups and downs with ADHD, showing us all how to love who we truly are. And my blog and social media accounts align completely with this message.

Because this issue impacts our family, I feel a huge burden to ensure my little one can always be her true self. What worries me is that as she moves through school and into adult life, there will be messages given to her which contradict our message as parents – to always be yourself.

My plan is to do everything in my power to ensure she can always be her true self.
Sam – Mummy Conquering Anxiety

Backstory – why we love books in our house

It was only right to create a book review page on my blog. Since I was a young girl, I’ve loved books, and writing. I even did an English & Media degree at University. My little one has firmly followed in my footsteps and we read a range of books with her. I talk about this more on my TikTok account. Check out the videos below and give me a follow.

@sammummyconqueringanxiet
The Anna’s Garden Blog Tour Buy the book because it’s a magical account of a little girl who struggles – but decides to make friends in her own way ❤️ click the link in bio to the taken to the #blogpost BLOG – https://rb.gy/0693j2 LINK TO PURCHASE – https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10106/9781837914845 #bookreviews #mummyblogger #mummyconqueringanxiety
♬ Alright – Avi Snow & Sync & Marky Style

@sammummyconqueringanxiet
Such a wonderful #book by @iamsimplyysophie ❤️❤️ We love it so much – I will always talk about how great it is! #mummycontentcreator #schoolrunmum #mums #mumlife #mummybloggeruk #mummyconqueringanxiety #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt
♬ original sound – Sam | Mummy Conquering Anxiety

If you want your book to be reviewed, I would love to hear from you – contact me here.

Ultimately, we could all do with a little dose of seeing everyone’s wonderful and unique differences through the eyes of a child. If we did this, we would embrace everyone’s uniqueness and experience more joy in life. Kindness and a world without judgment would prevail.
Sam – Mummy Conquering Anxiety

Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for other people.

Let’s dive into the review

First reading

I first read this book with my little girl – when we were tucked up in bed. She loves reading a book to settle her down at night.

ADHD is something which impacts our family. And therefore, it’s a subject we openly discuss with our child. Explaining to her that sometimes people think differently, due to how their brains operate and that is okay.

We also incorporate gentle parenting into our parenting style. As such, we explain that people in her class can react differently due to their upbringing or emotions. And that people don’t always mean what they say. They cannot control how they behave and apologising is the way forward. We regularly apologise to my little one, if it’s needed. The message is that we are all human and nobody is perfect.

We want her to embrace everyone’s differences and uniqueness.

How to discuss the topic of ADHD with children

Because this is a topic close to our hearts, I follow the discussion on social media and in the news. I’m aware that a lot of adults don’t want ADHD or autism to be referred to as superpowers, but I think we need to consider the intended audience. And how we broach this subject with younger people.

What I love, is that the book talks about Lila’s wonderful personality traits. But also the things in life she struggles with. Because of what I’ve read on social media, I will admit that the reference to a superpower in the book caused me to question whether we should be saying this or not.

But you know what, although it felt difficult for me to read those words, it opened up a positive conversation with my little one, about the topic of ADHD. She asked if she had it and commented on some of the things she does, like remembering everything – even things from a really long time ago. it’s true. She almost has a photographic memory; we’ve noticed it since she was little. Amongst other personality traits which have led me to have these open discussions with her.

Tools for opening up conversations with children

I think we need to ask why as adults, we have these beliefs ingrained in us. Surely the issue is as simple as seeing someone for who they are and respecting everyone’s differences. It’s society and the constructs we have in place, which make it difficult to do that.

Ultimately, we could all do with a little dose of seeing everyone’s wonderful and unique differences through the eyes of a child. If we did this, we would embrace everyone’s uniqueness and experience more joy in life. Kindness and a world without judgment would prevail.

Worries about my family

Because this issue impacts our family, I feel a huge burden to ensure my little one can always be her true self. What worries me is that as she moves through school and into adult life, there will be messages given to her which contradict our message as parents – to always be yourself.

I plan to do everything in my power to ensure she can always be her true self.

Books like this give me hope that things could change. And I hope they do!

Tiny Tree Books

I’ve now reviewed several amazing books published by Tiny Tree Books and I want to say a massive thank you to them – for publishing books that deal with such difficult topics. In a great way that allows kids to engage with the subject.

Synopsis

Step into Lila’s whirlwind world in A Dance of Happy Discovery

Embrace Lila’s unique sparkle as she twirls through life’s ups and downs with ADHD, showing us all how to love who we truly are.

Young readers, prepare to be dazzled by this exciting adventure that’s bursting with boldness, bravery, and the fun of being different.

Dive into Lila’s story and uncover a tale that’s all about standing strong, letting your creativity fly, and celebrating the superhero within!
Tinytreebooks.com

These are my previous book reviews for Tiny Tree books:

THE LONELY TIGER BY TERENIA EDWARDS, SEVERUS LIAN (ILLUSTRATOR)

Buy the book

All the details you need if you want to purchase the book:

Summary

You know what, writing this post has allowed me to open up and conquer some of my judgments and fears on a topic currently impacting our family.

And I think this perfectly summarises the impact of this book. Buy it for your children and for anyone you think would benefit.

It’s time for us all to open up the conversation on ADHD, and how we start embracing everyone’s uniqueness. Even if that is very different to our own.

Two Amazing Books Bringing Awareness To A Gap In History

26 September 2022 , 20 Comments

Dream to Change the world is the first in a series of black history books aimed at five to eight-year-olds. Creatively depicting the early years of John La Rose’s life in Trinidad. This is followed by Jump Up! A Story Of Carnival – highlighting the origins of carnival.

Please note: I was gifted these books by the George Padmore Institute – the review is based on my own thoughts following reading the stories with my child. There was no obligation to post a review

Black British History

In all areas, we teach my little one about different cultures. But it is difficult as a parent when there is a lack of narrative on the actual history. I will admit there is also a gap in my knowledge. We know what we were taught at school and it’s clear, that history is sometimes rewritten or reshaped to suit the needs of the people writing it. This doesn’t help me provide my child with the facts. With an overview of what actually took place. It’s the reason I am so happy these books exist. And I was motivated to read them with my little girl and publish this review.

There is something missing from our learning experience. Our younger generation needs to understand and be educated, to allow for all children to have an inclusive education. The more we understand something, the better we can appreciate its significance.

The George Padmore Institute

The George Padmore Institute (GPI) explores the lives and struggles of Britain’s black communities of Caribbean, African and Asian descent.

Dream To Change The World

The George Padmore Institute (GPI) has published a children’s book! Dream to Change the World is part of an Arts Council England project grant to demonstrate the importance of Black British history and inspire new generations with stories of diversity and inclusion. It also showcases how archives can play a key role for authors.

Our Writer in Residence, award-winning Ken Wilson-Max, has written and illustrated the book for children aged 5 to 8 years old. Dream to Change the World is the story of the childhood of John La Rose. Born in Trinidad, John’s influence on black communities in London and internationally is unparalleled in Black British history. He was an activist, publisher, trade unionist and writer. His tireless commitment to racial equality and social justice in Britain and beyond is inspirational. John’s archives are held at the GPI, the archive he co-founded, and from which Ken Wilson-Max has created a magical and engrossing book. Young readers will also learn about John’s achievements throughout his life from a fascinating timeline at the end of the book.

About writing the book, Ken Wilson-Max said:

‘Having grown up in a large, culturally blended family meant it was not difficult to create empathy-based stories, where those reading could imagine for a moment what it feels like to be those they read about. When I was approached to become the Writer in Residence at the George Padmore Institute it felt like a significant career milestone would finally be crossed. Working with the GPI team has been a very rich and rewarding experience. My hope for the books is to show people that we are more similar than different and equally entitled to history, culture, pride and dignity. These stories are accessible to all children and encourage them to step into another experience of the world.’

Jump Up! A Story Of Carnival

The George Padmore Institute (GPI) is delighted to announce the publication of Jump Up! A Story of Carnival for five-to-eight-year-olds, written and illustrated by award-winning author Ken Wilson-Max. It is the second book in the GPI’s new series of black history books, Reaching New Generations, which is helping to fill the void in reading material for younger children that the 2020 Black Lives Matter campaigns highlighted.

Jump Up! tells the story of Cecille, a young black girl living in the Caribbean, and how her community develops their very own Carnival, based on their long-remembered African traditions. For those who may wonder where our UK Carnivals – from Notting Hill to Luton and Leeds – came from, here’s an early origin story. Ken was inspired to write the book when he came across the GPI’s unique Carnival archive collection during his tenure as the Institute’s writer-in-residence. The story draws on the history of the festival and highlights one of the many contributions that Britain’s Caribbean population have made to our everyday cultural life.

Ken Wilson-Max said:

‘When the GPI asked if I was interested in doing a second book, I immediately thought of a story about the origins of Carnival that is also about the humanity of enslaved people, and their hope for building new lives, personified by a little girl, while celebrating what made them… them. This book, in a small way, connects the past with the present and hopefully helps readers consider a more inclusive future.’

Award-winning British–Trinidadian poet and musician Roger Robinson said:

‘Having an eight-year-old son myself, I can attest that it’s important for every child to recognise themselves in what they consume. That is why Jump Up and other books by GPI are so crucial – so that black children can enjoy stories whilst recognising themselves as joyfully intelligent and also being a part of a strong, vibrant culture.’

George Padmore Institute Trustee, teacher and editor Nisha Obano said:

‘With its luscious and vibrant illustrations, Jump Up! is certain to inspire young people of all ages, and serves as a reminder that, with the power of love and determination, anything is possible.’

Final thoughts

I hope you enjoyed reading about these books and will consider purchasing them. For more information, you can visit http://www.georgepadmoreinstitute.org. You can also find more blog posts about books, by visiting the Book Corner of my blog.

The Lonely Tiger by Terenia Edwards, Severus Lian (Illustrator)

17 July 2023 , 0 comments

Today, it’s my turn to introduce you to this amazing children’s book.

A copy of the book was kindly gifted, for the purposes of this blog post and my little one loved it!

What is the book about?

A story about loneliness, friendship, and self-discovery, beautifully illustrated by Severus Lian

Publishing July 20th 2023 in the UK and worldwide.

The Lonely Tiger’ is a sweet and uplifting tale for young readers; artfully illustrated
by award-winning illustrator Severus Lian.

‘The Lonely Tiger’ follows Tiger — the life and soul of the party. However, Tiger really doesn’t enjoy
being alone. Thankfully, Tiger has wonderful friends! Monkey, Bird, Gazelle and Frog want to help
their friend see just how much he lights up the room.

Perfect for a theatrical bedtime read, performed by grown-ups, or as an introduction to reading alone,
‘The Lonely Tiger’ is a story about discovering who we really are through the eyes of people who love
us the most.

It can get lonely… being one-of-a-kind!
Tiger loves to party, but he hates being alone.
It’s up to his friends to show Tiger that being on your own isn’t so bad.

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The author

‘The Lonely Tiger’ is the debut picture book from actress-turned-author, Terenia Edwards. Having
performed on the stage and the silver screen since 2015, Terenia really connected with young
audiences during the touring production of ‘I, Piano’ by Adrian Hornsby, a musical theatre show which
debuted at the 2019 Edinburgh Fringe Festival and returned for a second run in 2022.

“The characters in this book have lived in my head for 2 years now,” says Terenia. “I’m so excited to
finally share them with the world. I think we all have days when we doubt our own worth, so I think this
story will resonate with kids and grown-ups alike.”

Award-winning illustrator Severus Lian joined the project early on; her soft and playful art
style really brought the book to life and helped to showcase the joy and charm of the story. In 2023,
‘The Lonely Tiger’ was featured as part of the illustrator’s latest solo exhibition in Taiwan.
“I came across Severus’ work online and instantly knew she’d be the perfect collaborator to join the
project,” adds Terenia. “Her drawings are so playful and warm – she’s brought Tiger and his friends to
life.”

The publisher

Tiny Tree is an independent children’s book imprint based in Manchester, UK: specialising in
children’s picture books, chapter books, and YA. Tiny Tree is a small publisher with big goals,
publishing exciting, engaging and diverse titles for children of all ages. Tiny Tree books are written for
children, encouraging them to be themselves and live their own truths. In 2023 Tiny Tree was
acquired by publisher Andrews UK.

For more information please contact Anthony Barlow, Publicity & Marketing Manager:

What we liked about the book

As a family that practices gentle parenting, we are constantly talking about our emotions. Books such as The Lonely Tiger act as an aid, for parents who want to discuss difficult feelings with their toddler.

I particularly love the sentiment that different is good. And it’s what makes you unique. Also, seeing the image of you that a friend of family member sees, can change the way you think about yourself.

Such a heartwarming book, with a special, much-needed message. Especially in today’s world.

Round-up

I hope you enjoyed reading this review.

Will you be buying the book for your little one?