Readin' an' Rappin' with Eddie Betts!

Post

Subscribe

Sat 06 Apr 2019

Eddie Betts, undisputed Crows superstar, three-time All-Australian, multi Goal of the Year Winner, is commencing a new chapter in his professional career as a children's author with the launching of his first book - My Kind at Aldinga Library and Woodcroft Library on Saturday, 6 April 2019.

Eddie has drawn on his own struggle with racism and literacy to write his book. As a respected leader and positive role model, My Kind is aimed at children to join him in spreading kindness and accepting difference, and how we can come together.



Eddie said, "I wanted to write a book about me as a person. The way I was raised to treat others the way I wanted to be treated. It is also about how I grew up unable to read and write. In 2004, when I was 17, I was drafted to Carlton. I was unable to read and write, so I began a three-year literacy and numeracy course. I have made a big improvement, but there are times I still find it very difficult. I understand the challenges kids have of learning to read and understand big words."

Eddie recalled a time when a mum sent him a deeply personal letter about her son struggling with literacy and numeracy. He too embarrassed to tell anyone. When he heard Eddie's story he said, "If Eddie can do it, I can do it and I'll get help too."

Eddie said, "I wanted my book to be about me as a person, and all the personalities I have. My book is not only for kids. I wanted it to be enjoyable for parents too when reading with their children. I have included some catchy phrases they can rap together, which will be fun and make reading easier from a young age through the use of rap and rhyme."



My Kind was written over a six-month process and was a collaboration with former Collingwood and Sydney forward Jesse White who created the illustrations.

Eddie has plans for a second book with the working title My People which celebrates indigenous culture in the Eddie's Lil' Homies Series.

My People was printed in South Australia and opens with an acknowledgement to country, that it was made on the traditional lands of the Kaurna people.

At his book launch, Eddie will speak about Eddie's Lil' Homies, and his mission to motivate and inspire literacy and learning in children. The aim of My Kind is to help children with finding it easier to read through the use of rap and rhyme. My Kind focuses on the power of positivity and how we can spread kindness, making our world a happier and more inclusive place.

**The book launch will be held at two locations on Saturday, 6 April, 2019:
**

My Kind books and Eddie's Lil' Homies merchandise will be available for purchase on the day at both libraries.

**Aldinga Library, Central Way, Aldinga S.A.
Event runs 9.30 am - 12.30 pm, with Eddie appearing 10.00 am - 12 noon.**

Eddie Betts will appear on stage on Central Way (road closure in place, followed by book signings inside the Aldinga Library.

At Aldinga, there will be food trucks selling food, drinks and coffee from 9.30 am.

**Woodcroft Library, 175 Bains Road, Morphett Vale S.A.
Event runs 1.30 pm - 4.30 pm. with Eddie appearing 2 - 4.00 pm.**
Eddie will appear on stage at 2.00 pm followed by book signings inside Woodcroft Library.

At Woodcroft Library a BBQ will be provided by Morphett Vale Football Club. Coffee, drinks and yummy fudge will be for sale by Fudge Fairy. There will be face painting and other activities for kids.

#aboriginal
#aldinga
#books_writing
#child_friendly
#disabled_friendly
#family_attractions
#fun_for_children
#fun_things_to_do
#learn_something
#libraries
#near_adelaide
#south_australia
#southern_suburbs
#Wheelchair-Accessible-
#woodcroft
#april
!date 06/04/2019 -- 06/04/2019
%wnadelaide