A powerful new children’s book by award winning children’s author, Jeanne Willis and illustrator Alice Larsson, written for St Mungo’s.
Homelessness is a sensitive topic, and can often be really difficult to talk about, particularly with children.
Written by Jeanne Willis and illustrated by Alice Larsson, Stay! (Together) helps to make the subject more accessible, using a dog’s perspective to introduce the complex social issues and unfamiliar experiences associated with homelessness.
The book follows the real life stories of people we’ve supported as they find themselves sleeping rough, and how finding accommodation that allowed them to stay together changed their lives.
Jeanne Willis has been writing since she was five years old, and is an award winning author from St Albans. She was named The Guardian’s Author of the Month in January of 2004, and her book Big Bad Bun was recommended reading in 2011.
She is a three time winner at the Red House Children’s Book Awards, as well as multiple shortlistings and a win at the Booktrust Early Years Awards.
“Children are naturally curious about the world around them, but homelessness can be difficult for parents to explain.”
“I hope Stay! (Together) helps families begin important conversations, challenges assumptions about homelessness and reminds readers that behind every story is a person who deserves compassion, hope and the chance to rebuild their life.”
Alice Larsson is a Swedish born illustrator that loves to create drawings that has a blend of wonder and warmth. Working in both traditional and digital media, Alice often begins with traditional pen sketches before building expressive, textured illustrations.
Alice’s lifelong passion for drawing and creating art began in childhood, and has since blossomed into a thriving career. She has illustrated books for readers of all ages and collaborated with a wide range of publishers.
“When I was sleeping rough, Jacko my furry best friend meant everything to me. He kept me company, made me feel safe and gave me a reason to keep going. After being separated when I left Syria there was never any question of leaving him behind again. Experiencing homelessness was the worst thing that happened to me but finding somewhere with St Mungo’s support that welcomed both of us changed everything. I look forward to reading the book with my son Arthur when he’s older, to tell him all about mine and Jacko’s journey. It means so much that our story can help families understand homelessness and challenge the stereotypes around it”.
First experiencing homelessness in 2006, Benny used substances to cope until his new dog, Brandy, motivated him to stay clean for 13 years. Following Brandy’s death in 2019, Benny relapsed, but thankfully found the road back to recovery with a new best friend in tow, Casper.
After moving between hostels, Benny received support from St Mungo’s to secure a stable home with Casper. Benny credits Casper as his lifeline and main reason for staying sober, showing how pet-friendly housing provides the comfort and stability needed for a brighter future.
“St Mungo’s providing a home where I can stay with Casper means so much to me, he never leaves my side! I’m so grateful for how far we’ve come. I never imagined my story would become a children’s book, but I hope it helps people understand just how important the bond between someone experiencing homelessness and their pet can be. I also hope it gives parents a gentle way to talk to their children about homelessness with empathy and compassion.”
