A remarkable young voice is set to take centre stage in Tamworth this weekend, as 10-year-old author and illustrator Storm Tomlinson launches her debut children’s book Everyone’s Rainbow: Helping Little Hearts Understand Big Feelings at Tamworth Library on Saturday, 21 March from 11 am.
Blending creativity with compassion, Storm’s first book is already making an impact before it even officially hits shelves, with pre-sales secured and a growing interest in her work. But behind the colourful pages is a deeply personal story – one that began as a way for Storm to better understand her own emotions.
“I decided to write the book because I really struggled with my emotions when I was younger,” she said. “So I started to draw what I felt and what I thought my emotions looked like. This helped me understand what I was feeling and helped me identify ways to regulate them or learn more about them, including about myself.”
That lived experience has shaped a book that speaks directly to young readers in a way many traditional resources do not.
“I think it’s important for children to know what they’re feeling because I don’t want people to feel the way I did,” Storm said.
“There are other books and info out there, but unfortunately, they miss a bit of the feeling side. It’s easier to understand emotions through my book as it’s by a kid, for a kid.”
Storm hopes her work will help children, and even adults, develop stronger emotional awareness.
“It’s really good for emotional regulation to understand your emotions, and it’s something people struggle with their whole life, from children to adults,” she said.
Her journey to publication has been nothing short of impressive. Beginning her writing and illustrating journey in August last year, Storm has already completed her debut book, built a brand, and finished a second title set for release in January as part of a planned five-book series.
“Very short and quick! I started my writing and illustrator journey August last year and everything sort of just came together quite fast,” she said.
While the creative side came naturally, Storm said the process of self-publishing brought its own challenges.
“The writing is the easiest part of the book in my opinion, then comes the illustrating … Once I finish the book, I am self-published, so I need to find a printing company and order samples to see if I like the book. It’s really important that the book is nice and is the right size.”
Beyond her own success, Storm is already thinking about how to give back. At her launch event, she will be donating copies of her book to local charities, helping ensure all children have access to emotional learning tools.
“I thought I should donate some to local charities so people who can’t buy them can learn their emotions when they’re young, so it’s not harder to learn when you’re older,” she said. “I want to be that person to give people who don’t have access to these things a guide to help them with what they’re going through.”
Supported by mentors including Emily Gowor and Aaron McAllister, Storm is also inspired by business leader Savico Basset Rouge, whom she has met and learned from firsthand.
As she prepares for her official launch, Storm’s goal remains simple but powerful: to make a difference.
“I want them to finish reading the book and be like ‘wow, this will really help me with my emotions,’” she said. “I hope it also creates emotional intelligence through parent and child, so everyone can understand their emotions and themselves better.”
The community is invited to attend the launch event at Tamworth Library, which will feature an author talk, live Q&A, a book reading, and lucky door prizes. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to RSVP to Sam on 0437 374 737.
Read all the way through to the end of the story? So did lots of other people. Advertise with New England Times to reach New England locals who are interested and engaged. Find out more here.