Ladders

Available to buy online:

https://www.austinmacauley.com/book/ladders

Also available from other online retailers soon (Amazon, WH Smiths, Barnes and Noble, etc)

I wrote Ladders about 10 years ago, inspired by the children I was teaching at the time. One child in particular still stands out to me – she is who the character in this story is based on. I hope she found her wings.

Ladders was designed to not only be an inspiring story, but also a tool to open conversation. How do you explain to a child that their parent is struggling? Moreover, how do you explain to a child that they aren’t doing as well as they could at school because their parent is struggling? A deeper question here being “Should we even try?”

Often these children are struggling emotionally, but are far too young to understand the reason why. I thought maybe there’s a way of creating a shared language between child and parent to help bridge the gap. In a nutshell, the analogy used is this: education is a ladder, understanding of the world is wings, and the struggles faced are dragons. As children get older and understand more, this analogy can be unpacked and interpreted. This is a journey many people go on by themselves, but can also be undertaken with support – therapists, social workers, psychologists or other trusted adults. My hope is that this book helps support children through their most vulnerable time, until they get wings of their own.

Reviews

“Such a beautiful message and can link to so many people to help them through times of need and give them hope. I can personally relate to this and all the children who have been a part of my life. It gives me the strength to carry on supporting them up their ladder.” – RR, Primary School Teacher, Redbridge

“This story is so inspirational for so many. Children I have taught, I can see, would have found this so useful in a time of need. It is relatable and clear for children to connect to.” – LD, Assistant Headteacher, Tower Hamlets

“I genuinely feel that this book has a powerful message – as an encouragement to children (and adults) who struggle – as well as a reminder to those who encourage and support to keep on doing so.” – DK, Safeguarding Lead, Newham

“Wonderful book, such a thoughtful work of art. The message is exquisite, very impressed.” – GC, CEO of Academy Trust, Essex

“Not every child has the parental support to ‘climb their personal ladder’ – this book is about opening conversations to help those children grow.” – AR, Ex-Chair of Governors, Hertfordshire