Local author donates inspiring new book to Chowdene Children's Centre
A local children's author has gifted a Gateshead children's centre with a copy of her inspiring new book, The Bear and the Butterfly.
The story tells a tale of self-confidence and unexpected friendship by following the adventures of Bear, who feels like he's not good at being a bear. Trying everything in his power to become someone else, it's only when he meets his new friend, Butterfly, that he realises being Bear is the best thing he could possibly be.
Author Rachel Skeoch, from Gateshead, visits Chowdene Children's Centre with her daughter every week during term time for activities, play and to enjoy the reading corner.
Rachel said: "It's a real privilege to be able to donate my first book to a children's centre that means so much to me and our local community.
"The book was written, illustrated and printed here in the north east and teaches children in our region the importance of believing in yourself, celebrating diversity and being kind to others.
"I'm really lucky to have been able to bring my book to life while supporting local businesses and illustrators. To give back to the community is so important, which is why I've gifted my book to the amazing team at Chowdene, who provide brilliant care for local children."
By using printers within the north east region, the book will also be produced in an eco-friendly way. The CO2 figures can also be calculated for every copy and provided to the Woodland Trust, which, through their Carbon Capture surcharge, will pay for the plantation of new, native UK woodland across the country.
Councillor Gary Haley, portfolio holder for children and young people at Gateshead Council, said: "Rachel's story and dedication to giving back to our local community is inspiring for children in Gateshead.
"Reading and engaging with stories has been proven time and time again to be essential for developing children's literacy skills but unfortunately, fewer children are taking an interest in books.
"By being able to provide a wonderful, heart-warming tale to children who visit the centre, Rachel is playing her part in encouraging our children to enjoy reading for fun."
To find out more about our summer reading challenge, visit the Summer Reading Challenge website (opens new window).
A local children's author has gifted a Gateshead children's centre with a copy of her inspiring new book, The Bear and the Butterfly.
The story tells a tale of self-confidence and unexpected friendship by following the adventures of Bear, who feels like he's not good at being a bear. Trying everything in his power to become someone else, it's only when he meets his new friend, Butterfly, that he realises being Bear is the best thing he could possibly be.
Author Rachel Skeoch, from Gateshead, visits Chowdene Children's Centre with her daughter every week during term time for activities, play and to enjoy the reading corner.
Rachel said: "It's a real privilege to be able to donate my first book to a children's centre that means so much to me and our local community.
"The book was written, illustrated and printed here in the north east and teaches children in our region the importance of believing in yourself, celebrating diversity and being kind to others.
"I'm really lucky to have been able to bring my book to life while supporting local businesses and illustrators. To give back to the community is so important, which is why I've gifted my book to the amazing team at Chowdene, who provide brilliant care for local children."
By using printers within the north east region, the book will also be produced in an eco-friendly way. The CO2 figures can also be calculated for every copy and provided to the Woodland Trust, which, through their Carbon Capture surcharge, will pay for the plantation of new, native UK woodland across the country.
Councillor Gary Haley, portfolio holder for children and young people at Gateshead Council, said: "Rachel's story and dedication to giving back to our local community is inspiring for children in Gateshead.
"Reading and engaging with stories has been proven time and time again to be essential for developing children's literacy skills but unfortunately, fewer children are taking an interest in books.
"By being able to provide a wonderful, heart-warming tale to children who visit the centre, Rachel is playing her part in encouraging our children to enjoy reading for fun."
To find out more about our summer reading challenge, visit the Summer Reading Challenge website (opens new window).
