Tiny Tree acquires ‘bright and bold’ picture book on ADHD from Levey 

Tiny Tree has signed author and illustrator Ben Levey and his picture book on ADHD, Lively Lila: A Dance of Happy Discovery, slated for publication in April 2024. 

Worldwide rights to the book were acquired by Tiny Tree publisher James Shaw directly from Levey after open submission. 

Lively Lila, pitched at being accessible to children and parents alike, follows Lila as she goes through her roller-coaster life with ADHD, with a focus on resilience, creativity and self-discovery. 

Levey, who was inspired to write the book by his girlfriend who has ADHD, is a construction worker in his everyday life, and started writing and illustrating books with the aim of shining a light on the condition and its impact on young people, and breaking the stigma associated with mental health conditions. His aim with the book is to “portray ADHD not as a limitation, but as a different way of experiencing life, full of its unique challenges and triumphs”. 

Levey said: “As the release date for my third book, Lively Lila: A Dance of Happy Discovery, approaches, I am filled with an indescribable mixture of excitement and gratitude. This book, born from a deeply personal place, represents not just a story, but a part of my heart and soul.” 

“Lila is a character who has lived in my imagination for years, dancing her way through challenges and joys alike, embodying the spirit of resilience and creativity. This book is my ode to all the Lilas out there – those vibrant souls who see the world in a unique and beautiful light. I’m excited to see how the story resonates with parents, children and educators alike.” 

Shaw added: “The vibrant art style was the first thing that caught my eye in Ben’s submission, it almost literally jumped out at me. The whole title was just really well put together, and having another book aimed at raising awareness and understanding of mental health for children was something I just couldn’t ignore. Ben is a great talent doing great things and I cannot wait to see more from him.”