A star is born
Popup Nation
Representation matters. Many children, especially those with disabilities or from marginalised communities, are often left out of mainstream stories. They are rarely the protagonists, and their experiences are frequently hidden or overlooked. Seeing yourself reflected in a story can shape a child’s sense of identity and belonging, yet for many, this remains rare.
Our first prototype book, A Star is Born, follows our daughter Mia, who is deafblind, as she takes part in a talent show. The story shares her experiences preparing for the show, her love of dancing, and the everyday challenges she navigates - told honestly, in a way that feels real, familiar, and part of everyday childhood.
The book was written with all children in mind, giving readers the chance to see themselves in the story, in experiences they may recognise, and in a world that feels familiar to them.
Concept development
Early sketches
Inspired by experiences shared by Mia and myself, these early concepts helped shape the heart of the story and its narrative direction
This is just the beginning. From this prototype, we plan to develop a series of books that put children with disabilities at the centre, giving all readers stories they can recognise, relate to, and connect with.
The prototype also explores how technology can make stories more accessible and interactive. Some features use AI, such as speech-to-text or additional context, while others use augmented reality (AR) to bring illustrations and characters to life. Imagine scenes or characters leaping off the page, animations that enrich the story, or interactive elements that help readers explore different experiences.
