Dyslexic Children’s Author Calls Book, The Lost Wish, Her Greatest Achievement

On The Table Read, “the best book magazine in the UK“, first time author, Clare Anderson, is celebrating a children’s book, The Lost Wish, that has been published against the odds – just in time for Christmas.

Clare Anderson

Beauty entrepreneur Clare Anderson, who lives near Chipping Norton in Oxfordshire, struggled through her school years, never managing to achieve the grades of which she believed she was capable. As a teenager, she was even told by a teacher that she would be lucky to ever hold down a job. The 47-year old was eventually diagnosed with dyslexia aged 16.

Now Clare is co-author of a Christmas-themed children’s novel called The Lost Wish, which she describes as ‘a real team effort’. The fully illustrated tale, which combines fantasy and wellbeing, is suitable for children aged 5-11.

The mother of one says she learned the power of teamwork in building two successful beauty businesses since 2008, and used this insight to help her publish her first children’s book, despite her challenges with the written word.

The Lost Wish

Clare says that whilst the story, which sees a little girl called Siena step through a magical arch into Elfland, is all her own, co-author Emily Jacobs helped her to get her words down on paper. Editing the book was placed in the hands of former local primary school teacher Simeon Crowther, who also went on to voice the audiobook version of The Lost Wish, available on Audible.

The book is illustrated by Emma Kurran, previously a character animator, who has worked on films including The Jungle Book, Guardians of the Galaxy and Exodus: Of Gods and Kings.

Set in Elfland, a magical place where wishes can come true, Siena, named after Clare’s daughter, her loyal loving dog Buddy, and her best friend Gabi, inadvertently set off on a journey through a mystical land that’s filled with adventures, magic, and festive fun.

Positive Affirmations

With her 30 years’ experience in the beauty and wellbeing industry never far from her mind, Clare was determined to use the novel to share messages of good health and happiness. Positive affirmations and storytelling techniques designed to encourage kindness, mindfulness, resilience, and independence run throughout the story.

A QR code within the book allows readers to download a free Sleepy Elf guided meditation, to help children wind down and benefit from a deep and peaceful sleep.

Dyslexia

Clare said: “The publication of The Lost Wish is a real milestone for me – I would even say it was my greatest achievement. Despite having grown two successful businesses, my dyslexia and experience at school has always left me lacking confidence in my abilities.

“I have the ideas, the creativity, the passion and drive to make things happen but I needed the support of others to bring the story to life. It just goes to show that with the right team around you, anything is possible!

“People with dyslexia often have amazing imaginations and are very successful in the arts and business. Steve Jobs, Richard Branson, Picasso and even Einstein were all believed to be dyslexic and they didn’t let it hold them back.

“The Lost Wish is dedicated to all those children who struggle in school and know they have so much more to give.”

Simeon Crowther

Editor Simeon Crowther, formerly a teacher at Bishop Loveday CoE Primary in Bodicote, Oxfordshire, said: “The Lost Wish’ is a modern festive fantasy adventure story with echoes of familiar fairy tales, favourite fables and much-loved legends. It’s full of fascinating characters and remarkable events that teach children the importance of wellbeing, courage, compassion and self-belief.”

About Clare Anderson

Beauty industry entrepreneur Clare started her career as a beauty therapist for the likes of Champneys and Clarins. In 2008, she launched Shared Beauty Secrets, the exclusive supplier and trainer of luxury spa product Lava Shells to the professional spa market in the UK and Ireland. The original self-heating, biodegradable, massage tool is now used in over 2,000 high end spas. 

In 2019 she launched award-winning home spa products company Sensory Retreats to the consumer market which kickstarted the trend for self-heating eye masks.

Find The Lost Wish Now:

The Lost Wish, by Clare Anderson and Emily Jacobs, is available to purchase now from WH Smiths Oxford, Waterstones Banbury and online at www.sensoryretreats.com

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