Grace Josephine’s latest children’s book is about wanting to belong.
Grace Josephine reading at Shoreham market. Photo: olivealtermatt.com
When UK writer Grace Josephine moved to Blairgowrie two years ago, she was delighted to receive a warm welcome from the community. In contrast to her own life, the title character of her latest picture book Lou the Lost Witch struggles to find a place to fit in. With a keen ability to consider scenarios from a child’s perspective, Grace explores universal themes in her books at a level accessible to younger readers.
Lou the Lost Witch is a thought-provoking, rhyming picture book that reminds us not to judge a book by its cover. Despite her witchy appearance, Lou has a heart of gold and just wants to belong. As readers follow her journey through the beautifully illustrated pages, they’ll feel compelled to urge the characters Lou encounters to see the brave little witch for who she really is. Released this year by UK publisher Pegasus, it’s a story that will resonate with readers young and old.
Grace says she often draws inspiration from surprising sources. Her first book was inspired during an experience picking fruit in Bundaberg. With the monotonous task causing her mind to wander, Crusty the Orange sprang to life. Her second book, The Bendy Tree, was inspired by a famous Bruce Lee quote she heard while listening to a meditation playlist. Like the children she writes for, Grace is fuelled by curiosity and imagination.
Engaging in person with readers through author visits and readings at day care centres, schools, bookshops and libraries across the Peninsula, she enjoys experiencing firsthand the positive reception to her work. Grace also regularly promotes her books at Peninsula markets, saying: “You meet the best people at markets.”
Lou the Lost Witch, with illustrations by Nathan Monção, is available online and from Peninsula bookshops.