Dealing with Loss is Subject for Two Time Teenage Author
A teenager has published her second book aimed at primary school children in an aim to tackle emotional and wellbeing issues.
Seventeen-year-old Saffiya Hanslod completed the latest in a series of Sam’s Diaries, and the edition focuses on the concept of ‘Dealing with Loss’. The book has been published in time for the summer holidays.
Sam’s Diary is published by the charity One Voice Blackburn. The charity has been working in the area of emotional health and wellbeing for over a decade. Children and young people’s mental health has become more of a concern in recent years.
The young author has been a part of One Voice Blackburn’s youth groups and is hoping to study medicine at university later in the year.
The second instalment of Sam’s Diary Sam’s follows the story of Samantha losing her beloved dog and the emotions and feelings that come with it.
“Mental health issues are something very close to my heart. I am so thankful for being provided with this opportunity to write about it,” says formed St. Wilfrid’s School student Safiyya.
“I have been given a huge amount of support from my co-author for this book, Aisha Seedat, and the wonderful drawings of our talented illustrator Lindsey. Ultimately, I want to improve the wellbeing of children, and I sincerely hope that anyone reading Sam’s Diary helps improve their mental health.”
The book will be distributed across primary schools in Blackburn with Darwen, supporting young people who may be struggling with handling their emotions when losing someone/something close to their heart.
Sam’s Diary ‘Dealing with Loss’ has been carefully articulated to appeal to a readership between the ages of 7 and 10. The book is simple but carries an impactful message.
Sam’s Diary ‘Coping with Anxiety’ was the first book published in the series which charts the story of Samantha and her battle with anxiety when moving to an unfamiliar place. The book received an outstanding response from young people in various schools including Sacred Heart, Wesley Fold, St Michael’s and St John’s and many others. The first book was launched the autumn of 2024.
Lindsey Sagar who is the illustrator of the book series has contributed greatly towards the overall message through her detailed style and illustration technique.
“It’s been a pleasure to illustrate the latest book about coping with loss. Whether it’s saying goodbye to a beloved pet or someone close to the heart, bringing these tender emotions to life through art has been a meaningful and heartfelt opportunity,” says Oswaldtwistle born Lindsey.