Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family
I’m Shona and I am the owner of a South London venue – Space at 61 – which I started 16 months ago. I live in Forest Hill (SE London). My business is in Nunhead, so I spend 99% of my time south of the river. I have two children who are aged 9 and 2.
What is your toddler’s favourite book?
My daughter’s favourite book at the moment is The Highway Rat by Julia Donaldson. I think even 2-year olds have a lot of empathy, and she gets sad seeing the animals who the Rat steals from. But she also loves the rhymes and refrains and loves to spot the Gruffalo biscuits in the bakery at the end of the book. It was a real treat for her seeing it on TV at Christmas this year.
Which book do you most like reading to her and why?
The book I most like reading to my daughter is The Tale of Mrs Tittlemouse by Beatrix Potter. It was given to us when she was born by a very dear friend. The lovely thing about this book is the little mouse and my daughter share a name, although it is only used once in the book. Whenever it gets to the place where it gives the character’s full name, my daughter smiles so much and says, ‘like me’! As with all of Beatrix Potter’s books it has the most beautiful illustrations as well.
Which character in children’s literature do you think is the best role model for kids, and why?
Having spent two years of bedtimes reading the Harry Potter books to my son (between the ages of 6 to 8) I’d have to say he is a pretty good one. Harry is dealt a terrible hand in life but despite that is one of the most humble, caring, and responsible characters in literature out there for kids. He never gives up on his friends, on his missions, or on being the best that he can be. I think that’s a powerful message. The fact the story is such a saga, and not one with an instant happy ending, is good for teaching delayed gratification too. Totally recommend the books to anyone.
Do you have a favourite children’s bookshop? What makes them great?
Tales on Moon Lane in Herne Hill is gorgeous. It is everything an independent should be. The name is magical, and the store front is enchanting and enticing. The selection of books they stock is extensive, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. I took my son in there as a baby (with the free book token they used to give you in your hospital pack) and we bought the gorgeous tale of Ginger by Charlotte Voake. We still have it and my daughter loves it now. No surprise then that we are all very excited to hear that Tales on Moon Lane is also setting up shop on Stanstead Road! Living so close by, it could be dangerous!
About Space at 61
Founded in September 2016, the vision for Space at 61 was to provide a space for creative use. It is increasingly difficult to find places in London to use to trial ideas, with space at an all-time premium. Think of us as “an Airbnb for business use”. For more information contact Shona Chambers, Director – Space at 61, on 07466 443681 or visit spaceat61.wixsite.com/events/thespace