Author Spotlight: Ian “H” Watkins - Pride, Picture Books & Parenthood

Reading with young children can be one of the most rewarding parts of the day - but it’s not always easy. Whether your child loves a bedtime story or you’re still trying to find the right book to spark their interest, it can feel like a lot to navigate in the middle of busy family life. But what if the next book you share could open your child’s heart a little wider, spark an important conversation, or help them feel proud of who they are?

That’s why we’re excited to shine a spotlight on someone bringing something special to the world of children’s books: Ian “H” Watkins. Best known for his pop career in Steps, Ian is also a proud dad to twin boys - and the author of Pride & The Rainbow Warriors, a beautifully inclusive picture book that helps children feel proud of who they are. In this interview, Ian shares what inspired his writing, how parenthood shifted his perspective, and why reading - even for just five minutes - can make a lasting impact..

From Pop Star to a Picture Books supporting Pride

“Becoming a parent completely changed my perspective,” Ian shares. “It made me think about the kind of world I want my boys to grow up in — and the stories that might help shape that world.” His first book, Pride & The Rainbow Warriors, is a real labour of love. It’s all about embracing what makes us different and showing children that kindness and acceptance can change the world.

“I didn’t see families like mine or kids like me in the books I read growing up,”

Ian explains. “So I set out to write a story that champions diversity, kindness, and courage - a book that helps children feel proud of who they are and encourages them to stand up for others too.”

Writing with Pride

Ian describes his writing style as “heartfelt, inclusive and uplifting” - stories that help children feel seen, valued, and inspired to be themselves.

“I want my books to spark conversations between kids and grown-ups and create a world on the page where everyone belongs.”

His characters reflect the kind of world he wants his own children to grow up in — kind, diverse and inclusive. Many are based on real people in his life: his boys, people he’s met, or even his younger self.

“I think about the children who might pick up the book and what they need to see — heroes who are different, families that don’t all look the same, and friends who support one another.”

A Journey with a Few Twists

Ian never set out to be a children’s author. “My path’s had more than a few twists and turns along the way! I’ve spent most of my life performing and touring with Steps, but becoming a dad completely changed my perspective. Writing a children’s book felt like a natural extension of that - a way to use my voice to spread a positive message and hopefully make a difference for the next generation.”

The themes in Ian’s writing are clear and consistent: kindness, courage, inclusion, and pride. His hope? That every child who reads his book walks away feeling proud of who they are and more confident in being themselves. “I want them to know that being different is a strength, not something to hide. And that kindness and acceptance can change the world.”

The Power of Being Read To

Ian’s love of stories goes all the way back to childhood. “I have such fond memories of being snuggled up and read to at bedtime,” he says. “There was something so comforting about that quiet time, being taken off into another world through a story.” It’s a feeling he now aims to pass on through his own writing. “Those moments really stayed with me, and they’re part of what inspired me to write books that create that same sense of comfort, wonder, and belonging.”

“I Don’t Have Time to Read…”

Sound familiar? Ian understands. “Life can be so busy, and as a parent, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But I’d say try not to put pressure on yourself. Even just five minutes sharing a story can make such a difference.” He adds,

“It’s not about reading for hours - it’s about those little moments of connection, comfort, and imagination that stay with a child. It doesn’t have to be perfect - reading together, even in short bursts, builds a bond and shows your child that stories, and time with you, matter.”

What Reading Aloud Really Gives Children

“I think the biggest gift we give children when we read aloud is our time and attention - that feeling of being seen, heard, and safe,” Ian says. “Stories help children understand themselves and others, spark imagination, and open up their world. But most of all, it’s about connection. When we read to children, we’re showing them they matter - and we’re creating memories that stay with them long after the story ends.”

For Parents with Reluctant Readers

If your little one “isn’t into books,” Ian has a message just for you:

“Don’t give up - sometimes it’s just about finding the right book! Every child is different, and not every child will connect with the same kinds of stories. Try exploring different formats: picture books, comics, fact books, poetry, or audiobooks - whatever sparks their curiosity.”

He also encourages parents to keep it light and playful. “Reading together can be silly, interactive, and fun. Most of all, let your child see that books are a safe space, not a chore.”

From the Mouths of Little Ones

One of Ian’s favourite moments since publishing Pride & The Rainbow Warriors?

“A child once told me, very seriously, that the rainbow in the book must be magic - because it had definitely made their dog nicer,” he laughs. “Kids have the most wonderful imaginations, and hearing how they connect with the story is one of the best parts of writing for them.”

And Finally…

We asked Ian to sum up his books in three words. His answer? Inclusive. Uplifting. Kind.

As for the children’s authors who’ve inspired him, he’s a big admirer of Quentin Blake. “His illustrations brought Roald Dahl’s stories to life in such a playful, emotional, and recognisable way. There’s so much character in his drawings - they’re a bit messy in the best way - and they really help children connect with a story.”

So what would he be doing if he wasn’t writing children’s books? “Selling out arenas, 30 years into my career!”

And finally, Ian wanted to leave a heartfelt thank-you: “I just want to say how grateful I am to every family, school, and reader who has supported Pride & The Rainbow Warriors - it means the world. I truly believe that stories can help shape a kinder, more inclusive world for our kids, and I’m excited to keep writing books that celebrate that. And if Pride & The Rainbow Warriors finds its way onto your bookshelf, I hope it brings as much joy to your family as it’s brought to mine.”

We can help fill your bookshelf with books to be proud of with our subscriptions, or check out our Storyboxes - Love Makes a Family, and Elmer the Elephant.

Looking for other books that celebrate Pride, check out our suggestions here.