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08
Aug 2023
Last Updated: 08/08/2023
Children's author launches book at Halls of Ripon
First-time children's author Jo Jo Stewart visited Halls of Ripon at the weekend for the launch of her book Tigby Tried.
The book, which she has written, illustrated and published, features the adventures of Tigby the crab as he overcomes challenges through sheer determination.
Ms Stewart said her 20 years as a teacher helped her realise how many children had lost confidence due to the lack of interaction brought about by covid. She said:
"My book is aimed at children aged up to seven and its message is 'Keep trying and never give up' as exemplified by Tigby.
"In Chinese culture the crab represents rebirth, transformation and renewal and in life, if you can't move forward for whatever reason, don't give up - move sideways like Tigby and look for an alternative route to achieve your goals."
Ms Stewart, who studied children's illustration at the London College of Art, added:
"My love for collage encouraged me to experiment with my book illustrations, using letters that are individually cut and a bit wonky.
"I want people to remember that the world isn't perfect, there are lumps, bumps and wobbles and no one is the same.
"The Tigby character may have suffered his own lumps and bumps, but he proves that if you keep trying, no matter how wrong things might go at times, you'll get there in the end."
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