Mandurah student’s illustration chosen for new Therapy Focus storybook

A CHILDREN’S storybook featuring illustrations by primary school students was unveiled at a book launch at Perth Town Hall during National Children’s Book Week.

The book, If I Met a Baboon Who Lost his Balloon, was written by local teacher, author and artist Sean E Avery and encourages readers to be kind, understanding and helpful towards others.

Mandurah resident and Singleton Primary School student Freia Marian-Carey has an illustration featured in the book.

The illustrations featured were created by primary school students who took part in WA disability services provider Therapy Focus’ annual art competition.

Therapy Focus received more than 5300 artworks from 103 schools across WA and judges chose 100 finalists, of which 21 were published.

Sean E Avery said he focused on themes of inclusion in writing the rhyming narrative, which follows the journey of a hero who helps different animals with their problems.

“In a digital world where people are feeling more lost and lonely than ever before, I feel its so important to help remind people that they matter,’’ he said.

“Drawing pictures to complement words is a wonderful way to deepen understanding.”

A complimentary copy of the book will be presented to every primary school in WA.