Submitted by Jacqueline Nicoll, Canterbury, UK.
There is so much literature available for adult self-development and spiritual growth; wonderful books by many gifted authors that assist us to improve our lives and inspire us to walk our own true path. Have you noticed that there is limited availability of equivalent literature for children?
When my three children were younger I searched for children’s books that reflected my own spiritual understandings and values, knowing that picture books have the power to serve as windows and mirrors for a child’s experience and that of others. As there was, and still is, limited literature to help children understand universal wisdom, I began to write guided visualizations for my own children. I observed how the guided imagery ignited their imagination, helping to reveal their potential through an understanding of their own passions, hopes and dreams. I then re-wrote the visualizations and created picture book stories for like-minded parents and teachers to share with their own children and pupils. A couple of years later, after many rejection letters but an ever hopeful heart, my first manuscript was accepted by a publisher and then later a second one.
‘
Born to Love Frogs’ has been beautifully illustrated by a young award winning Australian artist who was only 18 years old when he was commissioned. The book celebrates children and their gifts and talents. The story honors the unique way each child makes a positive difference to the world.
‘Oceans Calling’ is the underwater adventure of a young girl and a mermaid. Deep beneath the ocean they find a secret which reveals to them the power that love has to heal the water, marine life and ultimately the whole world.
The stories are written for 4 to 9 year olds but are equally enjoyed by tiny tots, teens and adults. Both books offer a holistic experience through interactive activities at the end of the stories which enhance and build upon the themes and sharing experience.
I am a passionate writer and I love inspiring children to enjoy and connect with nature. My own close relationship to nature and my work as a healer and therapist have shown me how important natural outside play is for children for the healthy development of their minds, emotions and bodies. Children are the future caretakers of our beautiful planet and what we teach them about the environment and allow them to experience will help shape the Earth’s future. The books have been created in conjunction with Ecolibris who are an organization dedicated to making reading more sustainable. Over a thousand new trees have been planted for both books. A proportion of the books’ royalties are also donated to charities.
My passion for writing and promoting children’s mind, body and spirit literature has led me to develop interactive workshops which I present to primary schools. They are designed to encourage and inspire children to celebrate their gifts and talents through creative writing, poetry and fun activities.
What began as an outer search for inspiration has led me on an inner journey of self-discovery, vision and creativity. By following my heart and taking action, which are messages contained within the books, I followed my passion for positive change. I am grateful to be involved in and share the joy of other people’s passions and potential; to inspire and be inspired. This value is embraced in the following quote from ‘Born to Love Frogs,’ “One person makes a difference in all they think, feel and say. One person can show the world a very different way.”
To read more about my work as an author, healer and therapist, please see www.jacquelinenicoll.com