A new picture Children's book is inspired by the author’s own experience of teaching her mixed-race children about their Sri Lankan heritage.

When Ruby Lovell struggled to find a picture book representing her Anglo-Asian children, she decided to write her own story celebrating diversity, adventure and interest in other cultures.

Ruby Rides an Elephant is a vibrant and colourful exploration of Sri Lanka, inspired by the bedtime stories Ruby grew up listening to in Colombo, as well as the visits back to her homeland taken with her own children, helping them discover and explore their cultural heritage and experience some of the amazing adventures Ruby had as a child.

Listen to an interview with Ruby Lovell Here

From feeding and riding rescue elephants, climbing landmarks like Sigiriya Rock, eating tropical fruit for the first time in bustling markets and learning to play traditional Tamil drums, this authentic exploration will introduce children to a wealth of new cultural experiences and spark their imagination, educate them and instil a sense of adventure.

Artist Zara Merrick brings to life the vivid colours, tastes and sounds of Sri Lanka with bright and whimsical illustrations that capture the atmosphere of this extraordinary island.

The collaboration between Ruby and Zara began after they met by chance at their children’s school gates.

Ruby comes from a special family: her mother is English and her father is from Sri Lanka.

She doesn’t know much about her mixed-race heritage, so she’s about to go on a special adventure to learn.

On her first trip to her father’s homeland, Ruby discovers a country bursting with colour, sound and flavour.

She’ll learn about tuk tuks, coconuts and saris, and meet her first ever elephant.

Ruby Rides and Elephant by Ruby Lovell is illustrated by Zara Merrick and priced £6.99.