In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Keisha Ehigie, the visionary behind Imagine Me Stories, an award-winning monthly subscription box dedicated to bringing high-quality Black children's literature and empowering Black history activities to young readers. Keisha launched Imagine Me Stories in 2019 during her maternity leave, inspired by her desire to create a world where every child can see themselves in the stories they read. Her dream is clear and compelling: that all children have access to diverse stories that reflect their realities and open windows into other experiences.

The Power of Representation in Literature
Keisha shares how reading The Concubine by Elechi Amadi was a transformative experience that allowed her to see her reality reflected in a book. She talks about the joy and empowerment that comes from finding relatable characters and narratives, and how this inspired her to ensure more children can experience this joy.

Barriers in the Publishing Industry
We dive into the challenges Black writers face in today’s publishing landscape and explore why diverse voices and stories are still often underrepresented. Keisha provides insights into the systemic barriers in publishing and how initiatives like Imagine Me Stories are helping to bridge that gap by providing platforms for Black authors and stories.

The Importance of Diverse Books for All Children in schools
Keisha’s mission goes beyond serving Black children alone; she is working with schools to emphasizes the importance of all children having access to a range of experiences and perspectives.

Research with Manchester University: Representation and Self-Esteem in Children
We dive into the research partnership between Imagine Me Stories and Manchester University, exploring the critical link between representation in books and children’s self-esteem.

https://imaginemestories.com/

Insta: @imaginemestories

Twitter: @imaginemebox
Love and hugs
Alice and Margaret

In this episode, we puzzle over more than just life’s mysteries – we’re getting into literal puzzles! We’re celebrating Black History Month with a very special guest, Patrick Adom, co-founder of Very Puzzled. He talks about his business partner... who just happens to be his daughter (how’s that for keeping it in the family?). Patrick gives us the inside scoop on turning a bright idea into a thriving business that’s now proudly sold in Hamleys, John Lewis, Waterstones and other independent stores. Not bad for someone who admits he didn’t always apply himself in school! Patrick shares stories of growing up in Ghana, moving to the UK, and the wild ride of launching his company. Spoiler: the first sale was as satisfying as the final piece of a jigsaw! He talks about the importance of leaving a legacy and showing the world the beauty of African culture in a fun and engaging way—one puzzle piece at a time. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to combine education and fun without your kids realizing they’re learning, Patrick has the answer. Very Puzzled’s vibrant, detailed jigsaw puzzles are designed to teach children (and adults, let’s be honest) about African landmarks and culture, sparking curiosity and making family bonding time an educational adventure. Perfect for parents, teachers, or anyone who loves a challenge! We also dive into some important questions, like: What’s harder, - Starting a business or pulling an all-nighter? - Ghanaian or Nigerian Jollof—which one reigns supreme? - And, how can a jigsaw puzzle change the way people view Africa? Tune in to hear Patrick's thoughts on entrepreneurship, legacy, and the next big steps for Very Puzzled. Spoiler alert: he's just getting started! P.S. Don't forget to grab your puzzle and make family game night a little more "very puzzled"! Also, use the discount code: PAAN20 at https://verypuzzled.com/pages/about-us for 20% off these amazing products!! Follow Patrick @veryverypuzzled on Instagram https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pulling-an-all-nighter/id1762059348 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pulling-an-all-nighter

It's that magical time of year again when parents swap suncream for sewing name tags and gear up for the ultimate endurance challenge – back to school! In this episode, we're diving into the chaos that is drop-off and pick-up during the never-ending roadworks saga. Seriously, who knew getting to school could double as an obstacle course?
We'll chat about the "joy" of dropping off multiple kids at different schools, with timing so tight you'd think we're training for the Olympics. Then there’s the bank-breaking cost of school uniforms – because apparently, a polyester blazer is now worth more than gold. For those who love a bargain, we've got tales from the second-hand uniform hustle, where finding the right size feels like winning the lottery. And of course, the frustration of kids immediately losing said uniform once it's finally in their possession. Can we just attach GPS trackers to everything?
We'll also cover the exhaustingly slow three-week reception transition that feels longer than a presidential term. Who knew starting school could be stretched out longer than the Hobbit trilogy?
By now, we just hope all the kids are finally settled, the parents have survived, and that everyone is clutching onto their sanity by a thread. But fear not – October half-term is only three and a half weeks away, so start your countdown now!
Grab your coffee (or something stronger), sit back, and join us as we laugh, cry, and navigate the madness of back-to-school season!
Check out @melb_lifeandhome for after school routine
Department for Education: Working together to improve school
attendance:
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/66bf300da44f1c4c23e5bd1b/Working_together_to_improve_school_attendance_-_August_2024.pdf
Watch or listen to our full review on Apple Podcast or Spotify AFTER the main show finishes on BBC
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pulling-an-all-nighter/id1762059348
Spotify:
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pulling-an-all-nighter
Love and hugs
Alice and Margaret
#backtoschool #endofsummerholidays #newterm #schooltraffic #schoolroadworks #survivingnewterm