Press Releases

New Superhero picture book that teaches about empathy and consideration is released

Sheni and Teni, a toy company dedicated to championing pride in, and the diversity of African heritage, is proud to release its latest product, a children's picture book called "Ara Becomes Thundergirl". The book was inspired by the simple concept that "Kindness is the new cool".

 

"Ara Becomes Thundergirl" is a wonderfully colourful and engaging new title that provokes discussion of responsibility, compassion, and mindfulness - all of which are concepts that should be introduced to children from a young age. The product also comes with a Helper Certificate to reward young readers for their helpfulness both inside and outside the home; an idea that becomes even more crucial due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the hurt this has caused across the country.

 

Folasayo Williams, Founder of Sheni and Teni, says of the new release, “Growing up, I was an avid reader. But the truth is, hardly ever did the characters in the books I loved so much look like me. Over 30 years later as I raise my children, I realise there’s been change, but not enough. I think it’s important to be the change you want to see.

 

That’s why I’ve written a children’s book featuring a kind-hearted female protagonist - to show my sons that girls are also heroes and that kindness is the new cool. I wanted them to see their gorgeous skin tone being represented positively in the protagonist”.

 

Folasayo's statement resonates more than ever before due to movements such as Black Lives Matter (#BLM), and that as of 2018, only 4% of British children’s books featured a main character who is BAME (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic), according to the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education.

 

10% of the proceeds earned from "Ara Becomes Thundergirl" will be donated to Centrepoint UK, which is a charity founded to aid vulnerable young people to move past homelessness and towards a brighter, more secure future.

 

For more information, please contact info@sheniandteni.com or visit www.sheniandteni.com