Lively Lila: A Dance of Happy Discovery is bold and inspiring.
A fun and accessible journey through ADHD for children and parents.
Publishing April 2024.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tiny Tree is pleased to announce the signing of breakthrough author-illustrator Ben Levey and his picture book ‘Lively Lila: A Dance of Happy Discovery’. Worldwide rights to the book were acquired by Tiny Tree publisher James Shaw directly from the author, following a round of open submissions. Written and illustrated by Levey, ‘Lively Lila: A Dance of Happy Discovery’ is slated for release in April 2024.
The third book released by Levey, ‘Lively Lila: A Dance of Happy Discovery’ is an infectious and encouraging picture book with a focus on ADHD. The story follows Lila as she handles life’s ups and downs, showing readers a little of what it’s like to live with the condition. This bright and bold journey is full of fun, with a focus on resilience, creativity and self-discovery. This inspiring picture book asks readers to embrace the roller-coaster of life.
Author Ben 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.” He continues: “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 Lila’s 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.”
From the Back of the Book
Step into Lila’s whirlwind world in ‘Lively Lila: A Dance of Happy Discovery’. Embrace Lila’s unique sparkle as she twirls through life’s ups and downs with ADHD, showing us all how to love who we truly are. Young readers, prepare to be dazzled by this exciting adventure that’s bursting with boldness, bravery, and the fun of being different.
Dive into Lila’s story and uncover a tale that’s all about standing strong, letting your creativity fly, and celebrating the superhero within!
‘Lively Lila’ lives up to its name, with a vivid and rebellious art style that complements the story, and Lila herself, perfectly. With ADHD at the core of the story, this book educates readers on the nuances of the condition whilst normalising them and celebrating Lila’s quirks. Readers will discover the highs and lows of the condition, as well as the support our friends with ADHD might need.
“Writing ‘Lively Lila: A Dance of Happy Discovery’ was a journey that stemmed from a deep desire to illuminate the experiences of those living with ADHD — a condition close to my heart,” says Ben. “I wanted to create a character that not only embodied the vibrant spirit of individuals with ADHD but also told a story that was both educational and celebratory.” He continues: “The idea for Lila came from my girlfriend, Jen, who lives with ADHD. I wanted to capture it and bring light to the subject further – the untold stories, the unseen struggles, and the unique joys of those with ADHD. I saw a need for a character like Lila: someone who is not defined by their condition but rather shines because of it. My goal was to portray ADHD not as a limitation, but as a different way of experiencing life, full of its unique challenges and triumphs.”
James Shaw, publisher at Tiny Tree, said: “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.”
‘Lively Lila: A Dance of Happy Discovery’ is slated for release in April 2024. More details on the book will be shared in the future.
About Ben Levey
Ben Levey is an author and illustrator from East London who strives to leave a positive impact everywhere he goes. A far cry from his day job in the construction industry, Ben began writing and illustrating children’s picture books to support children with conditions such as ADHD. Inspired by his girlfriend, Ben looked to shed light on ADHD in a child-friendly way in the hopes of breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health conditions.
About Tiny Tree
Tiny Tree is an imprint of Andrews UK. Established in 2016, the imprint has gone from strength to strength producing high-quality picture books, junior fiction, middle-grade fiction, and YA titles. Tiny Tree looks to champion new voices and talent whilst producing unique stories for children of all ages.