By Caitlin Kirkley and Charlie Dowey
‘This is me’ entered the world of children’s literature this World Book Day, a heartwarming picture book for children which explores a range of diverse characters and identities.
This is charismatic television presenter George Webster’s debut novel which takes children on a journey of discovery as they come to learn about what makes each character so unique and interesting.
The fun of the story is also accompanied by colourful illustrations from the talented Tim Budgen.
Writer Webster, who was targeted by bullies during school, hopes this book will create a new approach in terms of thinking about learning disabilities.
George, 22, an ambassador of the Mencap organisation, said: “People with Down’s syndrome have emotions and feelings like every other person. They [don’t] ‘suffer’ from the condition. I have an amazing life.”
The picture book is the latest work by the BAFTA-winning CBeebies star, a project inspired by a poem that he shared on the CBeebies channel and eventually went viral.
When writing the book, Webster wanted to spread the message of acceptance and inclusivity as well as busting the myths around growing up with disabilities.
Many children have shared their love of the book on World Book Day 2023 by dressing up as some of the characters.
Publisher Scholastic chose ‘This is me’ as their book of the month for the age 3-4 category for March 2023 and described it as a “genuine and heartfelt” story which “encourages children to celebrate each other’s differences.”
Leeds-born George has always loved performing arts and joined the team of CBeebies presenters in 2021.
He is very passionate about championing the inclusion and representation of the disabled community across the media.
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