The Positive Parenting taskforce together with the Hon Minister Michael Falzon proudly launched the first ever children’s book in Maltese which deals with domestic violence. This book is the result of a collaboration between Audrey Friggieri, Commissioner on Gender-based violence and Domestic violence, writer of popular children’s literature, and PhD candidate within the Department of Youth and Community Studies, and Dr Clarissa Sammut Scerri, Senior Lecturer, Department of Child and Family Studies, psychologist and family therapist.
The book can be enjoyed by all children, especially those between ages 7 – 12 years old. It is a fantasy story based in the 'Urk universe'. The heroes of the story are Karolina and Ferdi, two school friends, who are going to spend their summer holidays at Karolina’s house. Little do they know that when they get to Karolina ‘s house, they are going to find an evil wizard instead of Karolina’s parents. Kyle Xuereb Cunningham’s beautiful illustrations perfectly capture the spirit of space adventure and wonder, whilst through expert use of colour, aptly evokes the darkness of an evil wizard who, together with best friends Karolina and Ferdi, makes this story a fascinating read for children of all ages.
"It is hoped that this book can foster conversations between children and adults (parents, teachers, and therapists) around a sensitive and difficult subject and through which children in such difficult circumstances can feel less alone" says Dr Sammut Scerri.
This book would not have been possible without the support of Chris Gruppetta, Merlin Publishers and David Muscat, L- Agenzija Nazzjonali tal- Litterizmu.