My kind of human

Who inspires courage, hope, love or joy in you?

  • Inspired by the wonder of kindness in Glumbags, the Starlike Books #MyKindofHuman page celebrates the everyday people who help other humans feel better.

  • Who would you nominate for a courage, hope, love or joy star? It can be anyone you like! Any age, stage, background or reason, alive or dead.

  • Nominate here (write #MyKindofHuman in the subject field) or, even better, nominate on Instagram or Facebook. Tag @starlikebooks in your post and add the #MyKindofHuman hashtag.

  • Remember, you’ll need permission to share another person’s photo online. In 50 words or so, tell us who they are and why they make you feel courage, hope, love or joy.

  • Not sure who to nominate? Take inspiration from our starlike humans below!

The Tkaczuk family inspire such joy

We love this #MyKindofHuman nomination from Laura, the Principal at Tenacity Dance. Laura says, 'Alisha has been a student at my dance school for a few years. She shows up with such enthusiasm and determination every week and radiates joy in every move! I often pass Alisha, her lovely mum Leah and little brother Warren on their school run, guaranteed are their beaming smiles and laughter on their journey. Alisha is super kind to her dance friends and often sets up treats for her mum - soft blankets, rose petals and chocolates for a cosy night in! They bake, make dens and dance together, a joyful family indeed #mykindofhuman.

These boys inspire unconditional LOVE

Here are the excellent Lucas and Lennon, with their devoted dad, Gavin. We love this nomination from Gavin, who has picked a star of love for his boys.

Gavin says: ‘They both inspire love - unconditional love. In turn, this love encompasses the other three starlike emotions, including the joy they bring, the hope they inspire regarding our future as a society, and the courage to follow our hearts and be fearless to chase our dreams. I always tell them to dream BIG.’

Hilary inspires courage

Hilary has helped countless thousands of people in her life, as a specialist therapist in the field of mental health treatment. She gets a star of courage from us because she has inspired so many to face their difficulties, believe in themselves and make the most extraordinary changes. Starlike Books founder, Charlotte, first met Hilary in 2007. She credits Hilary with inspiring the courage to change in her.

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Cousin love

Natalie’s biggest cousin is Emily and she’s a bit of a super star. She’s an amazing gymnast and dancer, doing backflips for breakfast and the splits for supper! She’s even mastered aerials, where she flips over in the air with no hands on the ground. It’s amazing to watch her fly. Here’s Natalie practising her moves with Emily, one very happy day.

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This little one brings joy

What can we say about this human? Natalie landed on Earth at dawn on a summer Monday, born as the Sparks’ song called ‘This Town Ain’t Big Enough for Both of Us’ was playing. The following night, her mum and dad took her home from hospital, clueless and in awe! As they drove along the Embankment, the lights on the London Eye across the River Thames seemed to be just for them. The capital was splashed with the boldest colours, the neons and sparkle of theatreland. Since then, it’s been mayhem and magic and mountains of marvellous mess! Long may that continue.

A hope star for John

In life, John had such a hopeful attitude to any problems that came his way. Despite significant health challenges of heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and becoming partially sighted, he inspired others to enjoy the lighter side of life. John belongs to the stars and universe now. We love him and celebrate him always. The first book in the Starlike Books series, Glumbags, is inspired by and dedicated to John. There are even secret portraits of him in the book, as well as his Leo constellation in the night sky, drawn by Ivy Trazsi.

Chas makes me braver

Charlotte’s great friend Chas is a fine-hearted woman, who inspires courage through her actions. Charlotte says, ‘Chas is a supreme being, who always listens with open ears, mind and soul. She never patronises. She isn't afraid to challenge me either. We also share a passion for writing. Chas is one of my biggest cheerleaders in pursuing my creative vision. She makes me braver. I only want success for her too. What fortune I get to call her my friend.’

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Nanny Win’s love

Nanny Win loved all her six grandchildren very much. When her youngest grandchild, Natalie, came along, Nanny Win would spend hours laughing and chatting with her on Facetime calls. On trips to see her Nanny in the north, Natalie and Nanny Win would greet each other like old mates, chasing around the house and garden, reading together and having such fun. There’s a very special grandmother in Glumbags too, who helps the boy in the story to go on his quest.