Children's book breaking down barriers about epilepsy

Writer Sharon Holt (left) with epilepsy adviser Maria Lowe.

About one in 100 people have epilepsy. It tends to be a hidden condition, and can contribute to a lack of confidence, especially for children.

The Epilepsy Waikato Charitable Trust works to improve the quality of life for people who have epilepsy by providing support and advice to them and their families.

Next month the trust will launch a new children's book called Ariana and Jack. This book complements the trust's first epilepsy book, Ben's Buddies, published in 2014.

Ben's Buddies was reviewed by Epilepsy Society UK, which said: "This book is short, sweet and beautifully illustrated for children. It opens with a gentle introduction to epilepsy. It is written to help de-mystify epilepsy and break down barriers, which it does in an entirely appropriate manner for children. It is also a useful resource for teachers."

Ariana and Jack will appeal to children and families in just the same way, as the book is well written in a sensitive and supportive way.

In addition, the book contains key information for parents and caregivers.

Ariana and Jack will be given to those families who are members of the trust, as well as libraries, hospitals and community groups where there is a need to have such a children's epilepsy book.

Maria Lowe, epilepsy adviser for the trust, said the previous book was well received and they were confident the new book would be equally as popular.

"Ariana and Jack is not only important, but necessary if we are to improve the quality of life for children living with epilepsy."

The books were written by award-winning author Sharon Holt.

The trust was recently approached by a New Zealand literary agent and she is taking both books to a prestigious book fair in Bologna, Italy, in April to show publishers how books such as these can be translated into other languages.

The books are written in both English and te reo Maori, the latter being contributed by Dr Ray Harlow, former professor of linguistics at the University of Waikato.

Ariana and Jack has been illustrated by an internationally recognised artist, Claudia Gadotti, who lives in Auckland.

Based in Hamilton, the Epilepsy Waikato Charitable Trust offers services mainly in the Waikato region ranging from social activities and in-service training to educational fact sheets and Skype consultations.

Maria Lowe provides support, advice and information to people with epilepsy, their families and whanau, school community and professional groups.

- For more information about epilepsy and the support that is available, visit ewct.org.nz.