Brixton resident Dapo Adeola has launched a campaign to make picture books accessible for blind children
The children’s illustrator and writer, who co-created and illustrated the Waterstones children’s book of 2020 Look Up!, which explored space science, is raising funds to adapt this book and We’re Going to Find the Monster into accessible versions for blind children.
He has joined forces with Living Paintings, a national charity that adapts picture books into tactile, braille and audio experiences for blind children.
The charity has committed to adapting Look Up! written by Nathan Byron, and We’re Going to Find the Monster written by Malorie Blackman. Dapo hopes to raise at least £7,000 to create 70 accessible books and make them available to borrow free from Living Painting’s postal library.
“A huge part of my career has been dedicated to producing books that allow as many children from various backgrounds to see themselves reflected in the wonderful and imaginative pages within,” said Dapo.
“But diversity goes beyond who is featured in a book – it’s important that all children are able to access and enjoy them.”
Liz Davies, publishing manager at Living Paintings said: “We’re huge fans of Dapo’s books and are so excited about the prospect of bringing his wonderful work to life for blind children. His picture books are staples in school reading nooks and bedroom bookshelves, with sighted children loving with his unique style.
“The publishers have now given us permission to adapt two titles and we’re thrilled to be working with Dapo to help blind children experience something so many of their sighted peers enjoy.”
You can find out more about and support Dapo’s campaign on his Just Giving page
