Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing has announced the upcoming release of The World We Can Build, a new picture book by Eliza Hull, Sally Rippin, and Daniel Gray-Barnett.
Set for publication in May 2025, the book follows two children — one who uses a wheelchair — as they struggle to find a play space designed for everyone.
Inspired by the social model of disability, the book argues that people are disabled by barriers in society rather than their own bodies.
“As a kid, when I was using a wheelchair, I felt more disabled when there were stairs or a classroom I couldn’t get into,” says Ms Hull, an award-winning musician, writer and disability advocate.
“When I discovered the social model of disability as an adult, it was a real ‘aha’ moment. It made me realise that the world is disabling, and that I don’t need to change.”
The social model of disability enables families and educators to understand that it’s the world that needs to change, not the person.
“It focuses on the barriers the world creates and shows children that we can all do our part to make the world more accessible,” says Ms Hull.
“When we do, people with disability feel more included.”
Publishing Director Marisa Pintado believes The World We can Build will serve as a vital resource.
“The World We Can Build is not just an entertaining picture book for children and their parents, caregivers and educators – it’s also a brilliant resource for showing kids that we can all can help build a more compassionate and inclusive world together.”
The World We Can Build will be available in Australian bookstores from 29 April 2025, and is available for pre-order now.
