Brave book needs backing

EARLIER this year, artist and musician Paige Duggan wrote and illustrated a picture storybook as a special first birthday gift for a friend’s daughter.

Brave Maeve is about a child learning who she is in the world. It explores environmental issues and climate change, connection to friends, places and feelings, harnessing bravery, and how to be a positive changemaker.

“I wanted to pass on my feelings to Maeve, and what was important to me, to inspire her,” Duggan said.

“Environmental issues and climate change can be overwhelming for children, teenagers and adults, but I thought it would be nice to share with her that she can be part of positive change in the world.

“She’s the main character at the centre of the book, so it’s a keepsake that she can grow up with.”

After the book was finished, Duggan shared some snippets of the story online, and her followers began expressing interest.

“People said, ‘I really like the look of that, I’d love a copy too.’ I have the permission from Jess, Maeve’s mum, and I’ve turned it into a book I can print and publish myself for others to have,” she said.

“I don’t have the capital to initially print the book for the people who want it, so I’ve set up a Kickstarter fundraising campaign which will allow me to do a proper, viable print run.

“Any small profit margin… will go to me being able to print extra copies and hopefully do a more extensive run.”

Duggan has a minimum goal to raise $4500, but would like to generate as much as possible, to share Maeve’s story with even more children. She is also offering pledge rewards, including bespoke illustrated portraits.

Brave Maeve will launch as a special signed hard cover edition. A high-quality soft cover run will follow.

“It’s an inspiring, positive, hopeful, and timely book,” Duggan said.

Visit bit.ly/3zr50lQ to support the campaign.