Mindful Champs founder Patel’s picture book goes to Little Tiger

Little Tiger has signed a new "inspirational and thought-provoking" picture book written by children’s mindfulness campaigner Nima Patel and illustrated by Cally Johnson-Isaacs.    

Sales, rights and marketing director Nik Bhatia acquired world rights for The Best You direct from the author. Illustration rights were acquired by editorial director Patricia Hegarty from Eunice Mcmullen. 

Patel is a psychology graduate and former primary school teacher, who created the brand Mindful Champs in 2020 to encourage children to practice mindfulness. She said: “The Best You was written out of a deep desire to draw attention to a narrative which I believe constricts children from growing with true purpose and authenticity. As adults, we are continually asking children what they want to be when they grow up".

She added that the book aims to shift this narrative "and instead, focus on asking children who they want to be when they grow up. By teaching children to develop traits of good character first and foremost, we can prepare them to thrive in any situation they may face".  

Bhatia added: “In an increasingly pressurised world, The Best You is a much-needed celebration of the positive traits that will help children thrive, and that we should all be encouraging as mindful parents and caregivers.” 

Johnson-Isaacs is a Northumberland-based freelance illustrator who studied illustration at Newcastle Art College and has since worked in the children’s design industry.

Little Tiger will publish The Best You in January 2024.