Jessica Ennis-Hill - 'Having my son really reinforced the power of reading'

Published on: 06 March 2017 Author: Robbie Hunt

For International Women's Day we asked Jessica Ennis-Hill about her new book, Evie's Magic Bracelet, and being an empowering role model for girls.

We're so looking forward to your new series, written with Elen Caldecott, starting with Evie's Magic Bracelet. What inspired you to want to write a children's book?

Having my son really reinforced the power of reading both to little ones and then for children. Stories and a bit of make believe based on life is a brilliant way to escape and imagine other worlds. I love books and hope that in some way I can encourage even the most reluctant reader to lose themselves in Evie's adventures.

One of the messages in your new series is for children to believe in themselves and be determined to achieve their goals. What or who most inspired you as a child?

It would have to be my parents and grandparents. My sister and I were active kids and they had to find ways to tire us out - we spent a lot of time outdoors exploring and playing. My mum and dad and my grandparents in Yorkshire were a massive part in building our confidence through experiences.

Which books did you really love as a young reader? Were there any particular characters that inspired you to follow your dreams?

One of my favourites was always The Jolly Postman by Janet and Allan Ahlberg. I loved that there were so many different elements to the book and that it brought a lot of my favourite childhood stories into one.

What current children's books would you recommend to parents looking for an empowering read for their children?

I think for me it will always be Matilda by Roald Dahl. I love this book. It's one of the classics and will definitely withstand the test of time.