Returning from a holiday in Brisbane last year, Octavia Bickford’s world was rocked when her mum explained that Australia was in lockdown and she wouldn’t be returning to school any time soon.
Then aged seven and in Grade Two, Octavia decided to write a book about it, as you do. Says Mum Debbie: “Octavia is very passionate about reading, writing and art. She always has a book and a pencil in her hand. When she wrote the book last year I said we will put this away and one day you can read it to your children and grandchildren. But then I thought I might help her publish it, so we did!”
Octavia’s slim volume, called “The Virus Called Covid-19”, is dedicated “to all those who lost their lives during Covid-19 and to my Nana and Pa. I would also like to thank my Mummy who helped me with getting my first book published.” Reading the 39 pages of heartfelt text and simple illustrations, one gets the feeling it won’t be her last.
“I found it sweet and actually quite moving,” says bookseller Annie Grossman of Annie’s Books at Peregian Beach. Which is why she’s stocking it and will soon have Octavia along for a Saturday signing session. The book is also much in demand at Octavia’s school library, with a long waiting list.
Octavia finished her book as vaccines were being introduced and the Delta variant didn’t yet have a name, so her conclusion reflects the optimism of childhood rather than the grim realities of winter ’21. She writes: “Finally the scientists finished the Covid-19 vaccine. As quick as a flash Australia bought vaccines and saved Australia. In 2021 we still treasure the day when Australia was vaccinated and protected from Covid-19.”
Let’s hope she’s right.
