I have to admit that in all my years of writing and telling stories it took a friend saying, “If you wanted to be a writer, you’d be one by now,” that forced me to dig deep and get moving. In fact, it was when someone asked about my biological clock (excuse me!) and “Do you not want to be a mother?” that I actually paused. What I realised is that I took time for granted. I’d always have time to write in the same way I just thought I’d grow up and be a mum one day. But time was moving, and what I realised was that life might need a bit more help to get me where I intended to go. Enter writing classes, journalism school and investigating the varied options available to becoming a mum. The privilege to raise a child made from someone else’s tummy is not lost on me, nor is the privilege of being a teacher who gets to foster the growth of your children. It was through this realisation that I really looked at the world my students, daughter and people at large live in and began to evaluate what I want to see and be a part of. I want to see diversity. I want there to be more than one type of child or family seen in books and TV. I want children exposed early to the beautiful variety of people, homes and families so they can ask the questions they need to become confident adults that don’t focus on differences. Instead, differences become normalised so the focus is on bigger issues rather than the colour of ones skin or their beliefs. It’s perhaps a tall order. But if there is anything that I have learnt from being a teacher, it is that children LOVE a good story and the quickest way to kill a lesson is to tell them what they need to learn. And so, the Jada Mei series was created to do just that. To drop in quick ideas, tools to build confidence, and ideas to ponder in a delightful, funny and easy to read way. Where the characters touch on topics and introduce them to their reading audience. Begin exposing children to differences and encourage them to continue the discussions at home and at school. I truly hope that you and your children love these characters as much as I do and that conversation, laughter and awareness will always be within our homes.
Quote Reference: “Creativity is intelligence having fun.” ~Albert Einstein Give it a try. It’s so much fun! Like Jada and Liam, many kids like to play football (soccer) but it’s not always possible to head outside to play. It may even be hard to find space outside. On those days however, you have no need
Book Passage: “A sister understands that beds were made for jumping,” Liam replied. “My mum never understands that, but it is made with springs. Spring means to jump. Right?” Check in with your children to ensure they understand the chapters they are reading and extending their understanding and enjoyment of the text. From Jada
Book Passage: Liam shook his head real serious at the memory, “That was a terrifying morning, I tell you. I lost 14 of my pet ants at home, right before I brought them in to show everyone! And all because my little sister, Remy, dumped them out to say goodbye! Who dumps ants out?
Book Passage: Zuri leant in again and slowly said, “Well, I’m glad to say that I don’t look like my brothers but I do look a bit like my mum. You don’t really look like yours.” I peered closer. That was true. I’m from China and Mum from England. I was adopted so my
