Local author, Natalie Reeves Billing, is preparing to launch her latest project: Builder Book boxes filled with books and activities designed to promote creativity and literacy.
Natalie, who is a popular children’s author, is driven by a desire to give back to her local community. Builder Book is part of Split Perspctivz, a social enterprise which was set up by Natalie alongside fellow children’s author, Jude Lennon, graphic designer and comic artist, Jonathan Tottey, and Chris Williamson.
The vision of Split Perspectivz is of a world where education is free and accessible for all children around the globe, regardless of learning barriers or socio-economic factors and Natalie and her co-founders say: “We believe that social enterprise is our best chance of creating a fairer, kinder world.”
Natalie has also joined forces with the Liverpool 6 Community Association (a non-profit organisation) and Beautiful New Beginnings to identify the children most in need of learning resources and is planning to send her Builder Book boxes to them for free. She is then hoping to donate more boxes to children in other areas of Merseyside.
Mike Morris, Co-Director of Writing on the Wall and Chair of the 2021 Liverpool Year of Writing, said:
“This initiative from popular children’s author Natalie Reeves Billing can play a vital part in developing children’s literacy and creativity across the Liverpool City Region, and is something the 2021 Liverpool Year of Writing and Writing on the Wall are proud to support as part of our work.”
In order to fund the roll-out of the boxes, Natalie has been working with local businesses, and is currently seeking more donations to help her reach as many children as possible. The author says that she’s incredibly grateful for all of the support that the project has received so far, and that any contribution – from a £5 donation to a corporate sponsorship, will make a big difference.
Joanne Kennedy, who is on the core planning group for Liverpool Year of Reading and is Community Liaison Officer for The Drive, said: “I think Builder Book is a wonderful resource for families to share the joy of reading.”
Joanne, who has two young children, added: “We are proud owners of a number of books by Jude and Natalie. Their books are easy to read, fun and tackle important issues.”
She concluded: “As Community Liaison Officer for The Drive, a local community hub based in L14, I am delighted to be purchasing some Builder Book Boxes as part of the pilot scheme. I know our families will really benefit from these boxes and can’t wait to see the adventures Booksy goes on.”
Natalie, who will be releasing the Builder Book boxes just before the summer holidays, says she’s looking for more partners in the community, and thanked the local businesses, including Regenda Homes, that have already come on board to support the project.
If you would like to support the Builder Book project, please email: manorrec@gmail.com
