When Luke Staton contacted my to see if I’d like to take a look at his children’s book Credo, I was not supposed to be accepting anything else for review. However, I so loved the sound of Credo that I couldn’t resist. My enormous thanks to Luke for sending me a copy.

I’ve found it hard to concentrate on reading what with one thing and another in the last few weeks, but Credo was pure joy to read and as many young readers might be about to spend Christmas book tokens and cash I thought now might be a good time to share my review.

Published on 31st October 2023 by Bookworm of Retford, Credo is available for purchase here.

Credo

Stan is a shy boy with a passion for playing football. He has a burning ambition to show his ability but lacks the confidence to get involved in new situations. A magical butterfly becomes Stan’s ‘pocket friend’, his companion and his newfound confidence.

My Review of Credo

Stan suffers from shyness.

What an utterly charming, helpful and supportive book Credo is. Whilst this is a children’s book, it is relevant to all ages and is such a lovely read. What works so brilliantly is that Stan loves football and much of the story revolves around the sport. There’s an authenticity that comes from Luke Staton’s own life as a footballer, but importantly, it’s often boys who find articulating their emotions most difficult and Credo speaks to them in a totally relatable way. My heart broke at Stan’s observation from the sidelines of school lunchtime football games and the story put me in mind of many a shy youngster I’ve taught in the past. There’s a touch of mystery in the story too as we wait to discover the six inspirational words from Mr Spencer to Fred.

From an educational perspective, I loved the physical qualities of Credo. The size is just right for a shy reader unobtrusively to slip into a blazer pocket or school bag. It has a strong and robust cover that will withstand much use in settings where youngsters are likely to encounter it and the illustrations by Shaun Clark enhance the story beautifully. I thought the metaphor of a butterfly – something that can emerge from another form, as well as an image that represents nervousness with butterflies in our tummies, was wonderful. The use of monochrome and colour to reflect Stan’s emotions was perfectly attuned to the text. Speaking of the text, there’s plenty of white space that means the writing doesn’t daunt a more reluctant reader, but equally the text looks mature on the page so that it doesn’t patronise readers, whilst at the same time the vocabulary is accessible. There’s a sense of real care in the production of Credo.

As Stan emerges as a more confident young man, the story in Credo is engaging and entertaining. However, it is the themes of friendship, how a kind comment or action can affect someone else dramatically, how single parent families can be fantastic and caring as well as a challenge at times, how doing your best and ‘paying it forward’ leads to more than just your own personal success, how all these aspects combine into an uplifting, heartfelt and encouraging read.

I think Credo is a really lovely book and one that should find a place in any home or school where a young person is struggling with shyness.

About Luke Staton

Former professional footballer Luke Staton is a motivational speaker and coach dedicated to inspiring young people and to encouraging effective leadership and management in adults.

For further information, visit Luke’s website and follow him on Twitter/X @LukeStaton1 or find Luke on Instagram and Facebook.