His new heart-warming children’s tale Goodbye Mother Bear tells of loss and friendship, inspired by the many children grieving for a loved one. Adam, 39, believes this often goes unnoticed.
A parent with children under the age of 18 dies every 22 minutes, according to charity Child Bereavement UK. This equates to 111 youngsters losing their mum or dad every day.
While researching the story, Adam came across charities that help those who are suffering such a loss and wanted to write something for them.
He uses Faraday the bereaved bear cub to teach children ways to cope ‑ and to reassure them that the frustration, anger and isolation they are feeling is normal.
Adam’s mum Theresa, 66, said: “He has portrayed this in a sensitive and heart-warming way which he hopes will help children who are grieving or know someone who is, to help them and to remind them that they are really, never alone.”
Many of Adam’s secondary school teachers ridiculed him for having dreams of being a writer.
He said: “Being told I should forget about writing was a distressing experience and to this day, I am at a loss as to why a teacher could have said that to a student. I remember losing faith in the education system.”
Adam, from West Molesey, Surrey, was diagnosed with dyslexia aged five. He worked night shifts to cover the costs of writing his six children’s books. He can pay anything between £800 and £3,000 for each one to get produced.
Adam’s first, The Big & The Little Monster, which he wrote at the age of 12 was rejected by publishers. The story finally hit the shelves in 2016 and was the first to win young fans and plaudits from critics.
He said: “Every child should be given the support and encouragement they need. My advice to any child, whatever disability you may have, is to feel good about yourself, never give up and follow your dreams.”
Goodbye Mother Bear is on sale at Waterstones for £6.99
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