If someone had told Christine McGuinness this time last year that she would be a published children’s author, she’d never have believed it. Then again, the past 12 months have been full of twists and turns, for many different reasons. But as a mum to three autistic children, and having recently being diagnosed as autistic herself, McGuinness is used to rising to life’s challenges.
‘I’m always shocked that anybody wants to work with me, but to be asked to write a children’s book…! It was such a pinch-me moment,’ says McGuinness. ‘I couldn’t believe that anyone would think I could do that. But I have. I’m so proud of what I’ve achieved.’
And so she should be. Aimed at raising awareness of children with additional needs, Amazing You, Amazing Me (Scholastic, £7.99) is a beautifully illustrated book, written clearly and sensitively, and featuring characters inspired by McGuinness’s experience of autism.
It’s a particular cause for celebration after what has been a tough time for the former model and The Real Housewives of Cheshire star, since the announcement last July that she and TV presenter husband of 11 years, Paddy, were separating.
However, and host Paddy, 49 (who McGuinness refers to as co-star Chelcee Grimes after they were photographed apparently kissing at Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland in December.
