with launch of new book highlighting the urgency of ocean protection
- Truro author Ben Rowswell joined children at The Wave Project in Newquay to launch new book, I Spoke To The Sea
- Following a session of surf therapy, author gave a special reading of his new book
- Book launch highlights World Ocean Day 30×30 – a global call to action to protect at least 30% of the world’s ocean by 2030
Newquay, 8th June: Truro author Ben Rowswell joined children at the UK’s leading surf therapy charity The Wave Project in Newquay yesterday afternoon for a special launch event for his new book for children, I Spoke to the Sea – which highlights the importance of ocean protection.
In honour of World Oceans Day, Rowswell took part in a session of surf therapy at Great Western Beach alongside young people from The Wave Project, and gave a special reading of his new book to children who regularly attend the surf therapy course.
Rowswell teamed up with illustrator Amelia Brooks for I Spoke to the Sea, which tells a story about how, as individuals, we can form a relationship with the natural environment, and how his personal experiences have created a strong connection to the sea.
A proportion of profits from Ben’s new book will be donated each year to The Wave Project, a charity that supports young people to overcome trauma and build confidence through surf therapy.
The launch on World Ocean Day aims to highlight the World Ocean Day 30×30 campaign – a global call to action to protect at least 30% of the world’s ocean by 2030 through a network of highly protected marine areas where no destructive or extractive activities like fishing or mining can take place.
Originally hailing from Liskeard, Cornwall, Ben’s first book ‘Cornwall An alphabetical Adventure’ was described by Dawn French as ‘A Cornish Delight’ and has been enjoyed by readers of all ages with testimonials from readers as far abroad as the United States and Australia.
Author Ben Rowswell said:
“I’m delighted to be able to support the Wave Project with my new book, we all need to work together to support young people to engage with nature, and benefit from the healing and transformation that can take place when you’re in the sea”.
Joe Taylor, Founder & CEO of the Wave Project added:
“It’s fantastic to have Ben’s support through his new book. Ben’s really made waves as a local author inspiring people to get outside and experience Cornwall, and with this new book is set to spread his important message further afield”.
The Wave Project is the UK’s first surf therapy charity and a founding member of ISTO. Initially funded by the NHS as a pilot project in 2010, The Wave Project aims to improve the wellbeing and confidence of young people who face mental health issues or social exclusion – offering a dedicated six-week course of one-to-one surfing support followed by the opportunity to join a social club to progress surfing and train to become volunteer helpers and mentors.