… Write a children’s book!

When I was little, I absolutely loved when my parents read me stories as they tucked me into bed every night. The Cat in the Hat was a personal favourite. They would read it in English. Though I didn’t understand much, just looking at the pictures was enough to spark my vivid imagination.

This fascination for children’s stories hasn’t left me. I remember jumping with joy when my partner gave me a picture book for Christmas! But of course, there is a huge difference between reading and writing… There was no way I could ever write and publish a children’s book.

Except I did! It’s called Where Are You From? and is the story of Lea and Noah, two friends from multicultural families who are trying to answer the often tricky question: ‘Where are you from?’

So, here is why I thought I’d never write a children’s book and how I turned it around…

… Because I can’t draw

Honestly, I think my four-year-old self could draw better than I do now! Pictures are extremely important and often matter more than the text when it comes to children’s books. So as someone who can’t draw, I thought this was a dream that would never come true.

The good news though is that we’re not completely alone in this world! A while back, Noel – who I met at a Writers’ Club – put me in touch with Josie. She ended up being the incredibly talented illustrator who brought Where Are You From? to life! I also partnered with my dear friend Farah once more. Not only does she make beautiful necklaces, she is also ace at graphic design.

… Because I don’t have kids

Totally right?! What do I know about the kind of stories children like if I don’t have any?

Luckily, a lot of my friends have had children recently. My best friend Céline and her baby Noah, in particular, have been a huge inspiration behind Where Are You From? In case you missed it, watch her interview about having a baby beyond borders today!

Plus, I remembered that I too was a kid once. It helped me to write a story I’m sure I would have loved to hear back then… A story that would have made me realise that it’s ok to feel as though you don’t quite belong where you are and that you’re not the only one in the world feeling that way.

… Because I was born and raised in one country

My upbringing was pretty straightforward. I was born and raised in a French family in France. So, how dare I write about multiculturalism?

This is a tough one and, if I’m honest, I still say it to myself sometimes. But, at the end of the day, whether I’m a TCK (Third Culture Kid) or a TCA (Third Culture Adult) shouldn’t impact the message I’m here, on this earth, to share.

WE ARE ALL HUMANS

ONE WORLD = ONE PEOPLE

BE BEYOND BORDERS

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The moral of this article is that you should listen to your inner voice carefully… BUT if it is ever telling you that you can’t do something you truly believe can change the world – one reader at a time – then consider proving it wrong. I can promise you that doing it feels amazing!