Grove author to launch new book series

OCEAN Grove opera singer and author Sally Wilson is counting down the days to the launch of her book, which is touted as the love child of Mary Poppins, Dr. Seuss and The Wiggles.

Ms Wilson is releasing the first book in the new Lala Chronicles series, Have You Ever Stopped to Think?, a multi-sensory experience for children aged from four to 12.

The book aims to empower young readers to face fears, embrace diversity, and develop emotional intelligence.

Ms Wilson says the new book goes beyond traditional storytelling and combines compelling narratives with original music, via QR code, and comical characters.

“My first intention with this book and the Lala Chronicles series was pure fun – fun for me, creating them, fun for the children and adults reading the book,” Ms Wilson said.

“The music idea came later, but it makes perfect sense – singing’s fun and fosters connection, improves literacy and numeracy outcomes for children, among other benefits.

“Being a trauma therapist, I see the effects of unhelpful ‘programs’ picked up by children and played out in adulthood.

“The themes presented in this book are programs you want your children to have – empathy, questioning and confronting fears, tolerance and acceptance of diversity.”

Have You Ever Stopped To Think? opens a whimsical world full of comical characters, including the Zimney, Sozit, Fink, and Moof.

An adventure for the young into the wild world of vulnerability and strength, this story embraces the imaginative, messy, and magnificent journey of experiences that unites people together.

“It was my intention to avoid moralising – that’s not fun – so although the book’s messages are profound and relevant to every human’s experience, they’re relatable in a humorous way through fresh, comical, memorable characters and their encounters,” Ms Wilson said.

“I hope my readers feel the affection that I do for these little characters and that they’ll have as much fun with this book as I have had creating it for them.”

Ms Wilson is already writing, illustrating and composing the next books in the Lala Chronicles series, where she will explore universal themes such as self-acceptance, tolerance, envy and appreciation.

Readers can meet Wilson later this month at her book launch and illustration exhibition opening on November 30 from 2pm to 4pm at The Hive Gallery, Ocean Grove.

To find out more, head to iamsallywilson.com