Loose Women star Katie Piper writes the world’s first ‘infinite’ book for children
KATIE Piper OBE has teamed up with Tesco Mobile to release the first ‘infinite’ digital book for children.
The e-book uses technology that allows its readers to delve through ‘windows’ on the screen to transport them to different sections of the story.
Inspired by first-hand accounts from anti-poverty charity, the Trussell Trust, ‘Alfie’s Magic Phone’ follows a young boy living without connectivity, access to data or internet connection at home.
The e-book was designed to educate connected families and encourage them to help close the digital divide.
It shows how Alfie’s world is transformed when he discovers a magical phone that transports him to ‘Dataville’.
The character’s experience of being cut off from the digital world is shared by 1.7m million households currently, according to a 2023 report by Lords communications and Digital.
Brought to life by illustrator Tom McLaughlin, the e-book unfolds through infinite zoom technology – a feature encouraging readers to look beyond the surface and ‘zoom in’ to uncover the real story.
To create the story, Katie collaborated with the Trussell Trust and consulted those with experience of living in poverty.
Katie Piper said: “This illustrated educational tale explores a new interactive format that could one day become the norm in schools.
“No family should be left behind due to digital exclusion.
“This is more than just a story; it’s a tool for change, helping those of us who can take being connected for granted to understand the importance of connectivity for every family across the UK.”
Tesco Mobile has promised to connect 50,000 people facing financial hardship by 2025 through its Little Helps Databank.
Jonathan Taylor, CEO of Tesco Mobile, said: “We are immensely proud to join forces with the Trussell Trust and Katie Piper to address the issue of digital exclusion among families around the UK in such a poignant way.”
“Our Little Helps Databank is helping to create a brighter future where every child has equal access to the digital world and the endless possibilities for storytelling that it holds.
“Through this one-of-a-kind book, we are harnessing the power of digital storytelling to speak to people who have the power to join our fight and ensure no family is left behind.”
The mobile network has also donated devices and data to support the Trussell Trust’s foodbank network to help the charity provide services effectively as possible in the face of unprecedented need.
CEO of the charity, Emma Revie added: “We should all have enough money for the essentials like food, household bills and internet connection.
“But right now, in the UK more and more people don’t have enough to live on and have no option but to use a food bank. This simply isn’t right.
“This book and Alfie’s story sheds a light on connection as one of life’s essentials and on our fantastic partnership with Tesco Mobile, which is helping to keep people facing hardship in our communities connected.”