A primary school teacher said she was inspired to write a book about being an only child following her own experiences.
Josie Eckersley, 27, was born in Preston and raised in Blackburn and now works as a teacher in Edinburgh.
She has published her first children’s book Only Child, Not a Child Alone which is aimed at three to nine year olds.
Josie said: “The story offers reassurance to children growing up without siblings, showing them the many ways they can feel connected and supported by family, friends, and community.
“I wanted to write Only Child, Not a Child Alone because of my own experiences growing up as an only child.
“At times, I felt different from my friends with siblings and sometimes even isolated. I often wished there was something to remind me that being an only child wasn’t a disadvantage —that it was special in its own way.
“This book is meant to reassure children who might feel the same way. I wanted to create a story that shows kids they aren’t truly alone, even if they don’t have siblings, and that they have many sources of love, friendship, and connection.
“My hope is that this story can bring comfort and help children embrace their unique situation, feeling confident in who they are and the bonds they build around them.”
Josie worked with illustrator Madeline Pinkerton who brought the story to life.
Josie said: “I approached her on Instagram asking if we could go for a coffee and talk about the book and when we met we realised she was my upstairs neighbour! What a coincidence.”
Josie said being a primary school teacher had given her an insight into how powerful children’s stories can be.
She added: “Every day, I witness how a well-chosen book can change a child’s perspective, spark new ideas, or even inspire newfound confidence.
“I wanted to write something that might help kids find their own 'a-ha' moment, where they see themselves represented on the page and feel that instant connection.
"With this book, I hope to reach children in a way that complements my work in the classroom: by providing them with a gentle reminder that they’re never truly alone.”
To find out more about 'Only Child, Not a Child Alone' see www.josieeckersley.co.uk
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