In Her Elements deep-dive into Sophie's world offers a rare opportunity for young readers to see through the eyes of a main character with cerebral palsy. Written by Jamila Gavin, this groundbreaking story is awash with magic realism, beautifully rendered in watercolour by emerging illustrator Jacinta Read. For readers age 10 and up.
Jamila Gavin is a writer of Anglo-Indian heritage who emigrated to Britain as a child. Shes been publishing childrens books for all ages since 1979, often inspired by the changing face of multicultural Britain, and driven by a desire to see children of all backgrounds reflected in the stories they read. Jamilas books include the Grandpa Chatterji series, The Surya trilogy and Blackberry Blue. Her historical novel Coram Boy, set in 18th century England, won the Whitbread Childrens Book of the Year, is in development with BBC TV, was adapted by the National Theatre and had a run on Broadway. Jamila lives in Gloucestershire. Jacinta Read is a Eurasian illustrator and writer whose work is influenced by her love of dance and old musicals. As a neurodivergent child who struggled to read, it was illustration that opened up the wonderful world of literature to her; she hopes her pictures will do the same for others. Jacinta lives in Oxford with her husband, two children, and Louie the red Jack Russell. Shes an illustration mentee on Pop Ups Pathways into Childrens Publishing programme (2019- 2021). In Her Element is Jacintas first published childrens book. Jacinta lives in Oxfordshire.
