Daddy’s Old Jumper

Daddy’s Old Jumper is a children’s picture book about love that lasts, even when someone is no longer with us. It gently explores themes of grief, change, and the enduring nature of love, offering comfort to families navigating the loss of someone special.

The story follows Darcy, a little person facing a big loss. Wearing Daddy’s old jumper, she searches for him in all the places he used to be. Then, suddenly, in the rumbly tumbly backyard, a gust of wind and a spark of imagination sweep her into a magical adventure, where she discovers that loving connections have a way of staying with us, even as life moves forward.

A thoughtful and imaginative story for children aged 3 – 9, Daddy’s Old Jumper supports gentle, age-appropriate conversations about grief and remembering those we love.

Kate’s book, Daddy’s Old Jumper, is inspired by a special little person named Darcy. Before Kate started writing, she worked as a scientist, wearing a white coat and mixing potions in a lab. That’s where she met Darcy’s mum, Jess, and they’ve been friends ever since!  After seeing Jess and her family go through a tough time, Kate felt inspired to write Daddy’s Old Jumper, a story about love that lasts,  even when someone is no longer with us.

Now, as a science communicator, Kate loves sharing stories—whether they’re about science or magical adventures like Darcy’s. When she’s not writing, Kate can be found baking sourdough, reading, or going for runs with her little dog, Noodle, who’s always by her side.

My Dad Can

My Dad Can is a children’s book that celebrates all the wonderful things “my dad” can do, regardless of his circumstances. He can do some clever things, some practical things, some fun things – all sorts of things!

Our attitude, not our disability determines how we live and even though there are things we can’t do, there are many things we CAN. Enjoy this motivational story and explore the world of “I can”.

I am a busy mum of two teenage boys. My husband is a T4/5 paraplegic and I am constantly amazed at the number of things he CAN do even though he only has use of his arms. After being in a wheelchair for over 30 years, he still finds the energy and ability to interact with our boys. Being in a chair hardly holds him back! One night, while dinner was simmering on the stove, I decided to put pen to paper. I wanted to focus on all the wonderful things my husband can do instead of dwelling on the things he can’t.

We do many things together as a family and don’t let the “cannots” spoil our fun. Our two amazing boys are always helpful, energetic and full of love for both of us as their parents. They don’t judge us on our abilities or inabilities.