Quarto Kids snaps up 'heartwarming' picture book from Olympic javelin thrower Fatima Whitbread

Quarto Kids has snapped up a “heartwarming tribute to love, fosterhood and the potential in every child” by Olympic medallist and former javelin thrower Fatima Whitbread. 

Children’s imprint Words & Pictures will publish picture book My Bright Shining Star in October 2024. World rights were acquired by associate publisher Holly Willsher from Julia Churchill at A M Heath. Illustrations by Rhian Wright were acquired by senior designer Sarah Chapman-Suire from Gill Mclay at Bath Literary Agency. 

Whitbread spent most of her childhood in care prior to her rise through athletics, and the former BBC Sports Personality of the Year winner has been an advocate for the support of children with adverse childhood experiences. This includes the 2024 launch of her own charity to support children in care: Fatima’s UK Campaign. 

My Bright Shining Star follows the story of a girl who finds herself living in a shared home away from her mother, yet through the love and support provided by confidant Aunty Rae she unlocks respect, self-worth and confidence. The publisher said the book “provides a powerful message on the transformative impact one luminary person, or act of giving, can have on the lives of others”. A biography section at the back shares Whitbread’s own inspirational journey. 

Quarto will be announcing an extensive speaking and events tour with Whitbread, as well as a comprehensive media and marketing plan. 

Whitbread said: “This story was based on my experience in the care system, and I hope that it will help young children and give some positivity to those in similar situations. I consider myself to be fortunate in that I had the kindness and support of Aunty Rae in the home, which then continued with the love and compassion of Mrs Whitbread who adopted me. I hope that this story gives children in care a glimmer of hope and continues to raise awareness.”