On Love your Library Day, pupils from Glencraig Integrated Primary School and Holywood Primary School came together for a special event to launch The Weather Catcher, an original storybook they co-designed which explores feelings and emotions. The launch, which took place at Holywood Library as part of Book Week NI, and was attended by children and teachers from both schools.
The book project came about after pupils from both schools completed the Healthy Me programme with Action Mental Health through the OUR Generation Project. Pupils then took part in a series of creative workshops, facilitated by local illustrator Ellan Rankin. The children were invited to use colours, shapes and textures to represent their emotions, and create characters for the book, which will be distributed throughout Libraries in Northern Ireland.
Ellan brought their visions to life, drawing upon the children’s vibrant artwork and ideas, creating and illustrating a story that authentically reflects the experiences and perspectives of young people.
The story uses weather as a powerful metaphor for emotions, to help children understand that feelings, like the weather, can change from day to day. Through the story of Robin, young readers are encouraged to recognise, understand, and express their emotions while learning that all feelings are natural and important.
He added: “This beautifully illustrated work will provide a lasting legacy of the OUR Generation Project. It is a wonderful resource that will be used to help children and young people develop emotional literacy, become more aware of their thoughts and feelings and help them to build emotional resilience.”
Speaking at the launch, David Babington, Chief Executive of lead partner Action Mental Health said:
“Action Mental Health is delighted to have worked with the pupils of Holywood PS and Glencraig Integrated on this unique project. It is a pleasure to see the culmination of the children’s work in the published book which supports emotional literacy, resilience, and positive mental wellbeing. It provides children, families, and educators with a practical tool to start conversations about emotions, self-awareness, and healthy coping strategies.
The Weather Catcher is a celebration of children’s creativity, insight, and imagination, demonstrating the value of listening to young people and empowering them to create resources that support the wellbeing of their peers.
