Nikki Saunders – Author and Creator/Executive Producer of BAFTA nominated Ready Eddie Go! on SKY Kids.
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Nikki's love for storytelling traces back to her childhood. Early influences shaped her passion for writing and later became an invaluable tool in supporting her eldest son, Tyler, when he was diagnosed with sensory processing differences, hypermobility, and autism at the age of three.
As Tyler grew older, he began asking questions about how he perceived the world differently from his peers. Nikki searched bookstores for vibrant, positive books about autism but found nothing. This lack of representation ignited her mission to do better for her son and all children facing similar experiences. She decided to write a book herself, creating a character named Eddie, modelled after Tyler. Eddie became a symbol of representation and understanding for Tyler, offering him comfort and connection. Tyler's reaction was incredible! Nikki is now an award-winning author.
Inspired by Tyler’s reaction to Eddie, Nikki's efforts grew beyond books, to bring Ready, Eddie Go! to life on screen with SKY Kids! The show, based on Nikki’s family experiences, follows Eddie as he navigates different social situations with the support of a narrator, voiced by Jodie Whittaker. The series not only promotes autism awareness but also serves as an authentic representation of autistic characters.
Nikki and Hocus Pocus Animation Studio ensured Ready Eddie Go! was inclusive, assembling a diverse team of autistic writers, voice actors, and animators. Each episode features Eddie tackling a new environment or challenge, with the guidance of his narrator, offering a gentle reminder of the importance of support for children with neurodivergent needs. In addition to the show, Nikki has created interactive workbooks designed to accompany the episodes, each guiding children through social situations with compassion and support.
Through her books, her show, and her mission, Nikki Saunders continues to inspire and create, ensuring every child feels represented, understood, valued and celebrated.
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“A huge thank you to all of my amazing little readers, Hocus Pocus and Sky Kids for joining me on my mission to reach more children and create Ready Eddie Go! This journey started with a book for my son and a lack of understanding in the world. Eddie is available NOW to watch on Sky Kids, reaching children at a larger scale than I’d ever imagined possible. How wonderful is that! I hope every child and family feel a big hug through each book whilst tackling social situations and environments at their own pace to fulfil their wishes in life!'
Nikki x
