Meet the Crew

Just Like Me Books are the UK's first Inclusive and Interactive picture books that utilize Augmented Reality (AR) technology to bring our stories to life. We believe that education should be Extraordinary, Inclusive and Interactive - where all children regardless of their ethnicity, background or ability feel Inspired, seen and supported through Immersive Learning.

Our Story

As a Black mother raising three boys of mixed heritage - one who is also autistic, I know just how important and powerful representation is.

In 2017 our eldest son Walter (aged 4 at the time) was diagnosed with Autism and was non-verbal. As parents, we found it difficult to find diverse books where children like Walter could find themselves in the pages of books. The saying goes, 'create the things you wished existed', so I did just that. I started to write a series of picture books called 'Just Like Me' - where at the heart of each story we explore and promote Diversity, Inclusiveness, Acceptance, and Kindness.

My first book 'Buster Finds His Beat' is about a mixed-race autistic boy who wears ear defenders as he can find sudden and loud noises distressing. This book promotes awareness and fosters an understanding of autistic children. As well as exploring some of the challenges Buster faces, it celebrates his strengths and the way he sees the world around him. 'Buster Finds His Beat' won the Faber Children's Publisher's prize award (2020) but more importantly, our son Walter started to recognize himself in the character 'Buster'. His first words were 'Walter' as he pointed to the character on the page.

This is why Representation Matters. If all children could see people who looked like them doing amazing things; could you imagine what that spark could do in their mind for their future?
There are few things as powerful as regularly reading to young children.
But what about children who can't read, have speech and language delays, learning difficulties, and are non-verbal?
Surely, we should be creating resources that also support their needs?
We strongly believe in representing and catering to all children which is why we are the first and currently only UK business to use Augmented Reality Technology to champion diversity and inclusiveness in picture books - something we are incredibly proud of.