NEW ADVENTURE BOOK TO BRING BRAVERY AND CONFIDENCE TO CHILDREN THIS WINTER

• A new children’s book created in the North East helping young people to deal with their big feelings has launched this festive season 
• Described as “Well written, moving, humorous, emotionally honest” by children’s author David Almond, Melva Mapletree and the Great Undoing follows the story of a 12 year old navigating the highs and lows of growing up 
• As well as being an entertaining read, the book will support conversations with children about difficult topics and feelings 

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A new brave, funny and unforgettable adventure book following the story of a 12 year old tackling big changes and feelings is set to delight children and adults alike this winter. 

Melva Mapletree and the Great Undoing is a new children’s book created by creative learning charity Mortal Fools, in collaboration with North East creatives including children’s writer and theatre maker Danielle Slade and illustrator Lily Mae Kroese, as well as story development support and resources from Kalmer Counselling. 



The story follows Melva Mapletree, who turns twelve only to be confronted by the chaos of growing up - from unexpected changes in her body to explosive mood swings and more. She navigates these changes with those around her, including her best friend Barnabus, her Grandpa Pebble, and even her annoying teachers.  

As well as being a comforting and entertaining read for children aged 8-13 - and their parents, teachers and carers - the story shines a light on important topics like anxiety, self-image and fitting in, dealing with change, grief, loss and self-harming behaviours, all explored with humour, warmth and sensitivity. 

Acclaimed author David Almond described the book as “Well written, moving, humorous [and] emotionally honest.” The North East-born writer of award-winning children’s fantasy novel Skellig added: “Many children will immediately relate to Melva and her world. I really enjoyed reading this book!”. 

Melva Mapletree and the Great Undoing, which is now available to buy from Amazon, is also available as part of Mortal Fools’ wider MELVA school's programme - an innovative digital media intervention designed to improve children’s knowledge and understanding of mental health and wellbeing. 

Kiz Crosbie, Mortal Fools CEO & Artistic Director, commented: “This book is dramatic and entertaining, while also covering some important themes and topics that can sometimes be difficult to talk about.  

“Co-creating it alongside inspiring artists has been a true highlight of my career; I've laughed, I've cried and I've  felt triumphant, as we've crafted this very special book.  I hope our readers enjoy it half as much as we have enjoyed making it.” 

The team developed Melva Mapletree and the Great Undoing through feedback from hundreds of children, teachers and parents during its creation.   
Children’s writer and theatre maker Danielle Slade said: “I believe every young person should read this book. It’s Melva Mapletree’s coming-of-age story - one of self-discovery, testing boundaries, and unearthing parts of her past that help her understand who she truly is.  

“It’s been created with North East young people; their worries, thoughts, feelings and wellbeing struggles helped shape the book and our characters. Young readers will recognise themselves in the book, whilst also finding joy, laughter, and a much-needed escape in Melva’s special world.” 

Illustrator Lily Mae Kroese added: “It’s been a joy to illustrate Melva Mapletree and the Great Undoing. Children and young people's emotions are important, and I hope that capturing these big feelings in illustrations helps validate, celebrate and support them. I hope our readers love the story, the illustrations and the world we’ve built together.” 

Melva Mapletree and the Great Undoing is now on sale priced at £9.99 - to learn more about the book, go to https://www.amazon.co.uk/Melva-Mapletree-Great-Undoing-Mortal/dp/1919206604/. 

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