Two children aged 10 from Hackney are set to release their first publication.
Ayden Jugula and Raeven-Dior Dwayne Scott have created a colouring book focused on football that honours the accomplishments of Black athletes.
The book, titled Ayden & Raeven-Dior’s Amazing Football Stars Colouring Book, showcases 12 influential Black footballers.
Those featured include Jude Bellingham, Rio Ferdinand, Marcus Rashford, and Ian Wright.
This initiative prompts young people to discover their abilities, recognise inspirational figures, and understand that their ambitions hold value.
The ten-year-old authors drew motivation from the approaching 2026 FIFA World Cup and sought to merge their enthusiasm for the sport with artistic expression.
The publication contains facts, career milestones, and informational segments alongside interactive activities designed to encourage research, contemplation, and confidence in their own capabilities.
Juliet Coley, who established Young LIT Stars, expressed pride in the young creators, noting that what began as informal school holiday guidance sessions gradually developed into conversations about football and international tournaments, sparking curiosity and detailed investigation.
Gregory Logan, serving as headteacher, commented that much like a football pitch offers unlimited possibilities, these pages present boundless opportunities for creativity and personal growth.
The release coincides with Black History Month and contributes to ongoing discussions about representation within children’s literature.
Research from Inclusive Books for Children revealed that from 2,189 children’s titles released in 2025 by major publishers, only 2.1 percent centred on a Black protagonist.
This figure represents a 25 percent decrease compared to the preceding year.
According to available data, Black children between one and nine years old constitute 8.5 percent of the relevant population.
The authors aim to motivate other young people to pursue their aspirations and trust in their abilities.
Their official unveiling is scheduled for Saturday, October 17 at ExCeL London.
The venue will host the Children’s Black Book Fair UK Zone as part of the UK Black Business Show.
Attendees will have opportunities to interact with the young writers, learn about their publishing experience, and acquire signed editions.
Young LIT Stars publishes works authored by Black children.