By Max Burrows
RAINBOW Shoelace Project Founder and former local Abbie Jane has co-authored a book celebrating all things pride and staying true to yourself.
“Seeing my story come to life as a picture book has been one of the most exciting and joyful experiences of my life,” she said.
“Getting it off the ground was a very lengthy process, it took two years till the finished product was launched.”
“We couldn’t find anyone in Australia that wanted to publish it so we had to reach out to global publishers.”
Jane started The Rainbow Shoelace Project at age 12 with a friend, to spread love and acceptance with pride-coloured shoelace beads.
The project grew to become a global movement, distributing more than 320,000 free bead packs worldwide.
The book is inspired by how the Rainbow Shoelace Project came to fruition and her experience of being bullied.
Jane said the book serves as a message to not let bullies dim your true colours.
“I absolutely love everything about this book,” she said.
“But to be more specific, I think the illustrations are truly beautiful. I love how the illustrator has managed to create real life people into book characters.
“The colours and contrast going from red dirt to rainbow filled streets is represented so well.”
Jane said she wants the book to be a symbol of hope and inspiration, showing how storytelling can empower young voices and make meaningful change in the world.
“I hope that this book shows young readers that kindness is so important and small ideas can change the world,” she said.
“No matter where you’re from, or who you are, you can make a difference if you have enough passion and love in your heart.”
The book will be available from Saturday, March 1, on the Rainbow Shoelace Project website, or from White’s Mineral Art and Mining Museum at 1 Allendale Street, Broken Hill.
