1st Edition
Down Mount Kenya on a Tea Tray: An Adventure with Childhood Obesity
Wesley had never thought much about his lifestyle or how he looked. He enjoyed eating his way through weekends in front of the telly with his mum. However, fate catapults him to a new life in East Africa and he is forced to face the negative impact that obesity is having on his life. When he rashly promises to climb Mount Kenya along with the rest of his class, an adventure in courage and determination begins . . .
This entertaining story explores some of the challenges faced by obese children and young people. It highlights both the physical limitations as well as the psychological problems associated with obesity, such as social isolation and low mood. The story explores the complicated web of factors that might cause a child to become obese and identifies some of the life-altering changes that can come from a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
Teaching lessons about kindness, friendship, bravery and determination, this is powerful reading for all children. It operates as a stand-alone story and is also available as part of a set along with a supporting guide.
Biography
Plum Hutton is a chartered educational psychologist and former learning support teacher. She holds a doctorate in educational psychology. She has more than 15 years of experience working as a local authority educational psychologist and latterly has transferred to independent practice. Through her work she has pursued and delivered training on many areas of professional interest, including supporting children with persistent anxiety, attachment difficulties, literacy difficulties and sensory processing differences.
Plum is a keen storyteller. She has gathered inspiration for her writing from her work, the challenges of parenthood and also through a nomadic existence as an Army wife, which has taken her to many locations across the UK and as far afield as East Africa.
"Down Mount Kenya on a Tea Tray is a hugely enjoyable story that deals sensitively with the issue of obesity in children. It will appeal to a range of children, both girls and boys, as well as confident readers and those less so, who need coaxing to read. The setting of the story in Kenya provides a multicultural element that adds to its strengths, as well as a skilful and empathetic portrayal of the characters in the story. It would be an exciting addition to any school library, either as a stand-alone book, or as a story to be used by teachers in a learning environment to raise awareness of the problems accompanying the condition of childhood obesity."
Emma Morton, Educational Consultant, Nairobi
"A sensitive topic, dealt with honestly and compassionately. A story that starts with the main character reluctantly recognising a significant life challenge that he needs to face amidst his tragedy, how he sets a goal for himself and then, responding positively as those around him who rally around to support him, he experiences the life change that he needed. An inspiring story with adventure and humour, reflecting the journey and wonder of friendship, and that with the will, and the support, mountains, both literal and figurative, can be climbed! This is a wonderful read."
Caro Strover, Educational Psychologist
