Beyond Words is excited to announce that they have launched three brand new picture books at an event at the House of Lords on 21 March 2023. The books, Lucy Goes Riding, When the War Came and Max Goes for a Check-Up, are the latest in the Books Beyond Words picture book series edited by Professor Sheila the Baroness Hollins.
All three books have no words and are entirely composed of pictures that can be read in an individual or a group setting. They cover topics ranging from what children can expect from a visit to their GP, to a look at the war in Ukraine and the lives of refugees, to riding horses. They are linked by the common thread of relationships, showing families and friends coming together to support each other.
When the War Came is an expansion of Beyond Words’ previous short resource on the war in Ukraine. Continuing their work with Polish artist Lucyna Talejko-Kwiatkowska, they have produced a full-length picture story about a family from Ukraine who is forced to flee their home. The book is aimed at helping those fleeing unimaginable circumstances to begin to tell their own stories and talk about their feelings. It may also be useful to help build empathy and understanding amongst children and adults in countries welcoming refugees. As the story has no words, it can cross language barriers and be used in a wide variety of contexts. This book is dedicated to the people of Ukraine.
Max Goes for a Check-Up is the latest Beyond Words book aimed at children and young people. Going to the doctor can be worrying. For children going for the first time or who are shy or nervous about the experience, it can be hard to talk about their thoughts and feelings. This book shows Max and his mum going to the doctor and explains what happens to them there. Feelings, information and consent are all explained.
Lucy Goes Riding is a brand new book all about the joy of shared activities and making friends. It shows Lucy trying out horse riding for the first time, making new friendships and strengthening old ones. This story was developed in memory of our colleague and friend Carrie Dunton, who died in 2021. The importance of friendships and horses were just two of the many things that mattered to Carrie. We miss you Carrie and are sure this short story will give pleasure to many people.
All three books are currently available in paperback format from Beyond Words, with eBook versions to follow shortly. Guidance on how to use wordless picture stories is included for anyone unfamiliar with their practical application.