Havering author shares message of kindness in new children’s book

A Havering author has released his second children’s book, using colourful illustrations and imaginative storytelling to encourage kindness, empathy and positivity among young readers at a time when many families feel life is busier than ever.

Ross King’s latest book, Leopards Can Change Their Spots, is now available on Amazon and follows the success of his first title, The Dragon Who Could Not Fly. Both books aim to gently introduce life lessons to children through engaging characters and warm, accessible stories.

Ross says his journey into children’s books began at home, while reading to his daughter as a baby. He explained that he noticed a gap in the market for stories that focus on values as well as entertainment. “I have always been interested in art and stories. I have always drawn and my mind is regularly dreaming up random tales and characters,” he said.

He added that the inspiration behind his writing was rooted in everyday family life. “My book writing came from reading to my daughter when she was an infant and feeling there is a gap for books that have messages of life lessons on kindness, empathy and positivity.”

Stories shaped by family life

The author believes that even very young children benefit from positive language and gentle guidance. In a fast paced world, he feels that simple values can sometimes be overlooked. “Sometimes I feel we are so busy that basic things like manners and thinking of others are less of a priority,” Ross explained.

By combining playful storytelling with bright illustrations, he hopes to create calm, meaningful moments for families to share together. “I try to combine fun and imaginative stories with colourful illustrations,” he said.

More books already planned

Leopards Can Change Their Spots marks Ross’s second published book, but he has no plans to stop there. He has already outlined three more titles and intends to expand his work as his children grow older.

Future projects will include books aimed at older children while continuing to carry the same themes of kindness and empathy. Ross is also keen to work directly with young people. “I will be looking to collaborate with children to encourage creativity, as I hold kids’ imagination and pure honesty in such high regard,” he said.

Both Leopards Can Change Their Spots and The Dragon Who Could Not Fly are available now on Amazon.co.uk, offering Havering families the chance to support a local author while sharing meaningful stories with their children.

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