Local Author Kiri-Michelle Mohi Launches Children's Books on Real-Life Issues

Kiri-Michelle Mohi, a local author, is helping children express themselves through a series of books called Real Raw Resources that address real-life issues children face. Her first book, 'My Colour is Enough', published in late 2022, focuses on identity. She has since produced six more books through her Fruits of Te Arawa publishing company, with books 8 and 9 launching next month. Book 8, 'My Not So Special Touches', is a child's guide about physical and mental touch and what is appropriate, while book 9, 'My Parents Chase Waterfalls', deals with addiction in the whānau.

Mohi emphasises that these books are resources created to provoke conversation and awareness, helping children who lack the language or vocabulary to articulate what they feel. Each book is coloured for a reason to help children identify them—children often ask for the 'blue book' or 'red book' rather than remembering titles. The books are available at Paper Plus Te Puke and through Fruits of Te Arawa Publishing. Mohi also offers a 'pay the books off' system to ensure accessibility, as books are published on a not-for-profit basis. Books 8 and 9 will be launched at The Daily Café on July 4 at 10.30am with book readings and workshops.

Originally published in Te Puke News by Sun Media.