The Full Story
About
Alfie’s Shining Star is a heartfelt children’s story about stroke, love, and understanding.
Inspired by real-life events, this book helps families gently navigate conversations about how a stroke can change the way someone moves, speaks, or lives - while reassuring children that the person they love is still the very same inside.​​
Created as a supportive resource for parents, carers, and educators, Alfie’s Shining Star offers a compassionate and age-appropriate way to explain complex changes in a way children can understand. Through warmth and honesty, it encourages empathy, connection, and open conversations during challenging times.
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At its core, this story is a reminder that although life may look different after a stroke, love, personality, and the essence of who someone is never fade.
About the Author
Hi, I’m James, the author of Alfie’s Shining Star.
Five years ago, my mother-in-law, Sharon, suffered a severe stroke that left her with significant difficulties affecting her speech and mobility. She fought incredibly hard through rehabilitation and continues to face each day with courage. While no further physical improvements are likely to be made, her strength inspires us all.
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In 2022 my wife and I welcomed our son, Arlo. Now three, he absolutely adores his “Mema.” He has never known her any differently. To him, she is simply Mema.
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As he grew, the questions began:
“Why can’t Mema say lots of words?”
“Why can Mema only use one arm?”
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We explained that before he was born, Mema had a stroke that made her brain poorly, but that her love for him is bigger than anything else in the world.
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Two years ago, our family was faced with another life-changing moment when my own father, Richard, suffered a stroke. His resilience, too, has been extraordinary.
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I wanted Arlo to have something he could return to as he grows, a gentle reminder that although someone may appear different on the outside, their love can shine brighter than anything.
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When I couldn’t find the right story, I decided to write it.
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And that’s how Alfie’s Shining Star was born.
