Michelle Richardson’s anthology feature leads to children’s books release

Known for contributing to an anthology titled Motherhood Honesty, Michelle Richardson from Linmeyer has now taken her storytelling talent to a new level, writing a book that entertains and educates young readers.

From motherhood to children’s literature

Her book aims to promote empathy and kindness and tackle issues around bullying. The book, Oh-Me-Oh-My!

A hero Yorkie dog and his bullies introduces readers to a lovable shelter dog named Rollo, whose unique appearance – one eye and very long legs – makes him the target of teasing by the other dogs. But despite the mockery, Rollo’s strength shines through when his adopted family faces danger on a stormy night.

Richardson shared, “This heartwarming and thrilling story follows Rollo as he proves that being different doesn’t mean being less capable.

“When a rainy evening brings unexpected danger, the hero Yorkie rises to the occasion and saves the day, showing everyone that courage and kindness come in all shapes and sizes,” said the author.

Anyone from animal lovers to the young and old will fall in love with Rollo’s journey, told through rhythmical rhymes and a repetitive line: ‘Rollo the Yorkie had but one eye, Oh-me-oh-my. Oh-me-oh-my!’

Rollo allowed the author to write for younger children, serving as her inspiration and, hopefully, her children, proving to them that anything is possible.

Additionally, Nicola Obertik illustrated the pictures in the book, and she captured the moments so perfectly. Richardson shared, “Working with Nicola on my ‘baby book’ allowed me to look at exclusion, how we are all unique and have talents and gifts we are good at. It shows that with the right encouragement, people can truly shine.”

Richardson wrote the book in poem form, “I love poetry, and there is much to draw on such as the figures of speech. There is a space to write an emergency contact. I also share a love of rescuing pets from shelters, and the book includes some humour kids will surely enjoy,” added the author.

Fostering kindness and encouraging reading

The writer said there had been a noticeable increase in awareness around issues like depression and the rise of cyberbullying.

These challenges affect people of all ages, and it’s clear people need to continue fostering compassion and understanding in our communities.

“One powerful way to encourage kindness and awareness is through books. Reading entertains, educates and opens our minds to different perspectives,” added Richardson.

Richardson hopes Oh-Me-Oh-My! encourages parents to read to their children, for children to read alone and for reading to create a time for families to bond.

“My mom used to read books by Hans Christian Andersen and books like Winnie-Pooh; moments I still cherish to this day,” shared Richardson.

What sets this book apart is how the author connects with her readers. For Richardson, imparting good teachings to children is vital because they can carry the teachings throughout most of their lives. Additionally, when growing up, the writer found joy in the stories of Enid Blyton, Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys.

“These books fuelled my imagination and sparked a love for reading that lasted into my adult years,” said Richardson.

Richardson grew up when going to libraries was encouraged, and she is glad to see libraries popping up on social media.

“Books have a way of making the world less lonely and are so critical for children,” she added.

The author

Richardson is a wife and mother of two boys. She has proved that her talents extend beyond the written word in the context of motherhood.

With her book, she is helping to shape a generation that values kindness, empathy and the strength to rise above challenges.

As children and parents embrace the story, it is clear that this author’s journey, personal and literary, is just the beginning.

Her book is a reminder that small acts of kindness can create big changes and that every child has the power to make a difference.

When Richardson has spare time, she enjoys taking out her laptop to write with a good cup of coffee.

“I enjoy family time, cooking, movies and my fur-babies,” said the creative.

She dabbles in crafts as well, doing designs, book swag, and UV designs with great sayings.

“I am a ‘wordy’ person. Words touch the heart, and we need to think about what we say with tolerance and kindness.”

Her late parents and late brother always influenced her reading, “The loss and coping with grief has been a part of my writing, too.”

Her family’s impact on her is an element she brings into her characters. She added, “When I lost them, reading, journaling, and poetry was important and is still for me throughout the healing process.

“Elzaan Pienaar, a former journalist at the Southern Courier, did an inspiring story about me which inspired me. Writers need writing people, and there are fantastic writing groups and meet-ups in Johannesburg.”

Additionally, this author said Maya Angelou always touches her heart.

“When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature. If I were a young person today, trying to gain a sense of myself in the world, I would do that again by reading, just as I did when I was young.

“The joy reading gave me growing up, and the contentment it gives me now is something I would love for children, mature people and people needing a time-out from the day-to-day stress to experience. This is the real you-time,” shared the writer.

As Richardson continues on the path she has paved for herself as a writer, she hopes to delve deeper this year and encourage reading in youngsters and adults.