The Right to Be Me

Children from St Paul's School were involved in the development of the book.

About the Book

Written by Allison Paterson and beautifully illustrated by Amanda Letcher, The Right to Be Me follows two Queensland friends, Lowanna and Jack, as they discover the meaning of Children’s Week and decide to celebrate by connecting with friends across Queensland. From Mt Isa to Kuranda, the Gold Coast to Longreach, children from all backgrounds share stories of their lives, and their rights to safety, education, culture, play, voice, and more.

Full of charm, diversity, and positivity, this book highlights the richness of children’s experiences and inspires young readers to take pride in who they are and the rights they hold. This is the first children's book published by Children's Rights Queensland in 2021.

Why It's a Great Educational Resource

The Right to Be Me is more than just a story. It is a vibrant and accessible introduction to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). It helps children understand that their rights matter in everyday life: at home, at school, online, and in their communities. With real-world examples and child-friendly language, this book builds awareness of concepts like safety, equality, cultural identity, freedom of expression, and participation.

Ideal for classrooms, libraries, community groups, and families, this resource supports respectful discussions about rights and responsibilities. Whether used as a read-aloud or a launchpad for deeper learning, The Right to Be Me fosters empathy, confidence, and critical thinking in children.

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'The Right To Be Me' Resources

Read a Digital Copy of the Book

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Watch a Book Reading

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The Right To Be Me – Q&A with author Allison Paterson

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Download 'The Right To Be Me' teaching guide

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Meet the Author: Allison Paterson

Allison Marlow Paterson is a passionate Australian author with a background in education and a deep commitment to storytelling that informs, inspires, and empowers young readers. She is known for her ability to translate complex topics into engaging and accessible narratives that spark curiosity and conversation.

Allison brings warmth and authenticity to every project she undertakes, drawing on her experience as a teacher, presenter, and researcher. Her writing often explores themes of identity, community, and the importance of remembering and respecting diverse perspectives. In The Right to Be Me, she combines her storytelling talents with a clear focus on helping children understand their rights and celebrate who they are.

Based on the Sunshine Coast, she now works as a writer, presenter and publishing consultant, sharing her knowledge and inspiring young readers across Australia.

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