Welcome to Just You and Me
Gentle Picture Books for Single Parent Families
Why I Started Writing
I've always loved children's books. While I was pregnant with Olivia, I started collecting some of my favourites from childhood, including The Tiger Who Came to Tea, Peace at Last, Mog the Forgetful Cat, and many others that still sit proudly on our bookshelves today.
And in stacks by the sofa. Beside the bed. In the back of the car. Anywhere a story might be needed.
They are timeless stories, and we'll be reading them together for years to come.
As Olivia grew, I discovered wonderful inclusive children's books celebrating many different experiences, identities, and family backgrounds. Children's publishing has become far more diverse since many of these beloved classics were first written.
But I struggled to find gentle children's books featuring a happy single parent family simply enjoying everyday life together. I could find books about family change, but very few picture books about ordinary adventures, routines, and family life in a single parent household.
At this stage in our family, I wasn't looking for stories about separation or helping children navigate changes in family life.
I was looking for stories that felt like us.
Stories about getting ready in the morning, camping adventures, treasure hunts, imagination, big feelings, and finding magic in ordinary moments.
So after Olivia went to bed, I started writing them myself.
Our Commitment to Families
Building a Supportive Community
Connecting families through stories
What began as one mum searching for stories for her daughter has grown into a community of parents, educators and families who share a love of books, childhood and everyday adventure.
Through recommendations, conversations and shared experiences, we celebrate the ordinary moments that often become the most memorable.
Whether you've discovered the books, the resources or our social channels, we're delighted you're here.
Supporting Representation in Early Years
Helping children see themselves in stories
Every child deserves to find themselves in the books they read.
Inspired by the principles of mirrors and windows in children's literature, our stories reflect everyday family experiences while encouraging empathy, curiosity and understanding of others.
For educators and parents, we also provide resources exploring the importance of representation in early childhood reading and learning.
Encouraging Imagination
Finding magic in ordinary moments
Every Just You and Me story contains tiny hidden moments of magic waiting to be discovered.
Rather than being explained on the page, these details invite children to observe, imagine and create their own interpretations.
Alongside the books, our activities and resources encourage children to continue exploring, creating and discovering long after the story has ended.