University News Last updated 14 February 2019
West Midlands illustrator Rachel Suzanne is celebrating after seeing her latest works go on sale – a children’s book authored by TV personality Rochelle Humes.
‘The Mega Magic Hair Swap!’ tells the story of best friends Mai and Rose, who make a wish to change their hair but learn that they are perfect just the way they are.
To bring the characters to life, Birmingham City University illustration graduate Rachel Suzanne worked alongside the book’s author, Rochelle Humes - best known for being one fifth of pop group ‘The Saturdays’.
Rochelle also presents ITV show ‘Ninja Warrior UK’ and is a regular presenter of ITV daytime show ‘This Morning’.
“I wrote this book for my little girl and others like her that have struggled to accept themselves”, she said.
Since graduating from Birmingham City University’s School of Visual Communication in 2015, Rachel Suzanne has carved out a successful career having worked with Hallmark Cards, fashion retailer Next and illustrating two picture books.
On working with Rochelle to illustrate ‘The Mega Magic Hair Swap!’, Rachel said: “It still feels like a dream.
“It's been great to work beside such a strong woman with a really beautiful message to tell. The book is about diversity and a celebration of what makes you, you.”
On seeing her work come to fruition, 26-year-old Rachel who hails from Cannock in Staffordshire, said: “It's the best feeling to see something you've worked so hard on being enjoyed by people.
“Seeing the book on ‘This Morning’ with Holly and Phil was particularly great!
Rochelle Humes will be signing copies of ‘The Mega Magic Hair Swap! at WHSmith Birmingham, Union Street, on Thursday 21 February. Book tickets here.