From small acorns, grow mighty oaks, said a wise person once. Most things in life begin small, look at babies! And so it is with Thea Chops Books. We’re small right now, and certainly our beginnings are even smaller! But it’s a start. It begins.
I’ve been writing rhyming children’s stories for fun since my daughter was tiny. I’ve always loved books: as a child I could hide away for hours with my head in a book. And I always loved making up stories too, and remember feeling so proud one day when a teacher selected one of my pieces to read out to the class. I do sometimes wonder why I didn’t go on to study English or creative writing, but it was not meant to be I guess. Until now!
So here we are: the company is set up, as is the website and all of my preferred social media channels. A fabulous illustrator is on board and is in the process of creating beautiful drawings to bring the story to life. And support for the book. and the concept of the company (to produce entertaining but empowering stories that show boys and girls as equals) has been nothing short of amazing. I started the year, somewhat reluctantly doing some crowdfunding to help pay for the publication of the book (I say reluctantly as I was convinced for weeks that no one would want to pledge or be interested – imposter syndrome eh?! We know all about that!). And honestly, I was blown away by the support I received from friends, family and many complete strangers! People everywhere are really on board with the idea that we should begin teaching our children about equality from a young age, that the words we use and the messages we send are so so powerful, and impact so much. Just look at the recent Women’s March: an historic day when millions of men, women and children across the globe marched to raise awareness for an equal world, and the need to protect legislation for human rights.
So here we are. I’m set up, and I’m doing this. I’m stepping so far out of my comfort zone that I want to step right back inside again! But too late! The cat is out of the bag and the beans are spilled!
And so, it begins!
Thank you for coming along on the ride.
Suze x
