Ambassador: Mark Lemon

Mark Lemon is an award-winning children’s author, publisher, and most recently, podcaster. Mark lives in Bristol with his wife, Simone, and his two children, Otis and Thea. 

Disillusioned with the lack of diversity in children’s books, Mark (with two mixed-race children of his own) decided to create a series of exciting story books with non-white characters. With thrilling tales and beautiful adventures, the Otis and Thea Lemon series have become a firm favourite in family households. 

Mark is now using his success to help bereaved children cope with their grief and loss. At just 12 years old, Mark’s father was murdered and this sudden and unexpected loss turned his family upside down. Mark drew on his childhood trauma to publish his fifth children’s book ‘The Magical Wood‘. Published on the 26th anniversary of his father’s death, it has been praised by families who are coping with grief, or anticipating the death of someone they love. ‘The Magical Wood‘ was awarded Bronze in the Best Designed/Illustrated Book for Children category at the Junior Design Awards 2018. 

Mark has recently launched his new podcast, Grief Is My Superpower, in support of the charity. Mark has now dedicated his time to helping young people and adults suffering through grief. This has led to being invited to be an ambassador for Winston’s Wish (now part of Child Bereavement UK). He was delighted and honoured to be asked and is very much looking forward to working with the charity going forward.