LOCAL AUTHOR LAUNCHES NEW CHILDREN’S BOOK

By local author, Emily O’Reilly

Emily modestly describes Andrii’s art as by far the best thing about this book. She says that every thought and idea was made even better by him. The book was brought to life by his artsomething he dedicates all of his time to. After 7 months, their book was published in May. The final touches to the book include hidden caterpillars to count and a colouring/drawing page.

The pair are proud to say that 20% of the profit will go to charity. They decided on two charities to donate to, one each. Emily chose Choose Love because, as an English Teacher, she taught refugees through NGOs that Choose Love support. Andrii chose to donate to Sincere Heart, Ukraine - an emotional and psychological rehabilitation centre for children of war. As a Ukrainian, he knew it was important to help children in his home country.

“The Butterfly Dance” is the debut children’s book by local writer, E. Rose (Emily O’Reilly). The book was born in Dartford and finalised in the Canary Islands.

The book, which has been highly praised, is perfect for young children with easy-to-remember rhymes and engaging art. The story follows the fun and surprising journey of a small child and a butterfly; it reminds us that there is true beauty, even in the ordinary. As you are led through the adventure, you enter the young character’s imagination in a way that will, in turn, spark your own.

The idea for the book came while walking to Brookland’s Lake from Emily’s home in Wilmington. A very simple sweet moment happened next to St Michael’s Church and that inspired an idea for the local poet. Sadly, we cannot say what exactly happened as there is a surprise twist at the end of the story!

Emily met the illustrator, Andrii, in Gran Canaria whilst living/volunteering in Camino Art House - a hostel for artists with caves on the property. The pair became close when they shared a cave with another artist. When they weren’t working in the art house, the three spent most of the day creating art, poetry and music - bouncing off one another.

The book has an Instagram page that you can follow for regular updates: @thebutterflydancebook.

The book is now available for £6.49 on Amazon and £4.99 in person at Stephen Oliver: Studio and Gallery in Dartford. Or you can obtain at a low price by contacting Emily directly.

Please email emilyroseoreilly@outlook.com for a direct copy or search for ‘The Butterfly Dance E. Rose’ on Amazon.