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Ignite your imagination with Peter Andre
Get inspired to explore other worlds through children’s books, as Primary Times speaks with global superstar Peter Andre about alien adventures, outer space, teamwork and more…
Best-known for his work on television and his musical success as a singer-songwriter, Peter Andre is also a dedicated charity ambassador and children’s author. His newest book is another spectacular space adventure aimed at ages 3+. This vibrant picture book is full of mischief, mayhem and baby aliens, with a story that highlights the importance of working together, friendship and fun. To find out more about this exciting, brand-new title ‘Super School Kids and the Baby Alien Rescue’, as well as Peter’s thoughts on exploring new planets and extraterrestrials, read on…
What do you think children find interesting about space and aliens?
The possibilities of other life forms - what are other planets like? Could we be friends with other life forms? And would we ever be able to visit their homes? I’ve always been fascinated with space exploration and the cosmos, since the film Close Encounters of The Third Kind was released.
Where did the inspiration for this book come from?
It came from stories that I created for my children when they were all younger. It started with Junior and Princess because I was always fascinated with space exploration. I wanted the kids to use their imagination and picture what it would be like if they could visit these places and use what they’ve learnt in life to teach other beings on other planets.
What do you most enjoy about children’s books and writing your own stories?
It’s a chance to find your inner child and the creative mind - anything goes in your imagination! As a child, there are no limits to what can be possible. When I was younger, watching films like E.T. and Close Encounters just resonated with me and I always believed there was something more than just us. I’ve always wanted to find out more and I love the thought of other worlds being out there that we can hopefully one day visit.
With its themes of friendship, adventure and teamwork, what are you hoping that children and families take away from this book?
I hope that using your imagination, using your creativity and working as a team can make things that seem impossible, possible. The bottom line of all of this is about teaching kids values like respect for each other and, in this case, for other beings. This book is also great for both children and adults because it shows that when kids are put under pressure, they really can put their minds to work to make things happen. It’s also a really lovely read together and actually I think that it will be a great story for schools to share.
Who is your favourite character in ‘Super School Kids and the Baby Alien Rescue’ and why?
Where I would normally say my kids are my favourite characters, in this instance I’m going to say the baby aliens because they are just cheeky and energetic and up to no good, but they mean no harm.
Are there any future projects in the works that families can look out for?
Obviously, this is only book number two - I hope there will be a series of books discovering many different parts of our universe. Aside from books, I have my first feature film coming out later this year and new music to look forward to, so watch this space!
‘Super School Kids and the Baby Alien Rescue’ by Peter Andre and illustrated by Richard Watson is out now, published by Scholastic.
Photo credit © James Rudland