Year 1 to 4 students of Apii Te Uki Ou enjoyed an hour of reading and discussion with visiting authors Ana and Olivia Meredith yesterday.

New Zealanders Ana and her daughter Olivia, 6, are on their second visit to Rarotonga, but this time with a different purpose.

Yesterday, they visited Apii Te Uki Ou, Apii Avarua and Apii Nikao giving copies of their new children’s book “My Brain is Magic”.

The book is said to be an interactive illustrated children’s book to promote confidence, gratitude, wellbeing, mind-set awareness, kindness and individuality.

‘My Brain is Magic’ authors Ana and Olivia Meredith with Lusi at Apii Te Uki Ou yesterday. LOSIRENE LACANIVALU/23052307

Meredith said their mission is to create a sparkle of positive little minds who grow up to believe in themselves and in their dreams.

Ana Meredith with daughter Olivia (middle) and her family. LOSIRENE LACANIVALU/23052305

She said: “We came back because we love the place so much and we wanted to give back to the community, we got this children’s book and thought it would be special to come around to the schools.”

She said the children at the schools were really engaged, and understood the concept of the book.

Apii Te Uki teacher Stacey McCormack reading the book to her students. LOSIRENE LACANIVALU/23052306

Meredith explained that her daughter Olivia had a lot to do with the book and she came up with ideas for books, subjects, marketing and colours.

“It’s important for children to have a positive mind-set, so this is a gift for them.”

Apii Te Uki Ou Year 1 teacher Noni Fleming said the books were awesome and perfect for the age group that they have.

Fleming said the way the book was set out was positive, and they enjoyed the authors visit and the time spent with them.