A mum has written a children’s book about self-love and self-esteem to inspire her two-year-old daughter.

The book, Who Do I See in the Mirror?, chronicles the adventures of Philly, a black girl with curly hair as she explores what makes her special.

Vese Aghoghovbia Wolu, 31, from Buckhurst Hill, wrote the book when her daughter whose nickname is Philly, was 12 months old.

Vese says she began writing the book as she couldn’t find many black characters in children’s books that Philly could relate to.

The message of the book is to “love the skin you’re in. It’s what you are on the inside that matters most”, Vese explained.

"Representation matters a lot. I was struggling to find characters who looked like Philly in books and I wanted my daughter to grow up reading books that featured people who looked like her.”

Epping Forest Guardian:

The author has joined forces with a charity to sponsor a book for every copy sold.

The partnership with Books2Africa, means her book is supporting literacy and education in the poorer parts of Africa.

Vese said: “Not too long ago, I met a 32-year-old lady who was unable to read and write despite having gone to school. My parents helped her learn to read and write by sponsoring her literacy lessons.

“This is a huge problem because education is a vital tool for alleviating poverty. Those who can read and write stand a better chance of winning the fight against poverty. With books, they can imagine beyond their immediate surrounding and dream big into action.”

“That’s how the idea came to create a book with diverse children’s character she - and kids everywhere - can love and identify with. One who is strong, confident and happy, goes on adventures, as curious as George, laughs from within and loves wholeheartedly with tight hugs and lots of kisses.”