Maurice Matthew
Maurice Matthew, a self-published children’s author, mentor, play leader and specialist children’s representation speaker with over a decade of experience supporting children and young people. His inspiration for writing began in 2019 after the birth of his daughter, he noticed how few children’s books portrayed fathers in loving, active roles. This led to his debut title, When Does Daddy Love You, which celebrates the everyday bond between father and child and promotes inclusive representations of fatherhood.
Alongside his writing, Maurice has spent more than 10 years mentoring and 8 years leading play at an after-school club and holiday play scheme in North West London. His work focuses on nurturing confidence, creativity, and emotional wellbeing through play-based learning and positive male role modelling.
As a specialist children’s representation speaker, he has delivered talks and readings for organisations including the Early Years Alliance (“Building Minds and Nurturing Growth: Constructive Play and the Power of Play at Any Age”) and the NHS (“Representation in Publishing and the Power of Positive Characters”).
He has contributed to panel discussions at literary and cultural events such as The Black Literary Festival, and was featured in The Voice magazine in an article on active fatherhood.
Through all aspects of his work, Maurice champions the message that fathers — particularly Black fathers — play a vital role in children’s development and deserve to be seen, celebrated, and represented in the stories they read.
My Vision
My vision is to create a meaningful collection of titles that celebrate and promote the inclusive role of a father in a child’s life. These stories will highlight the importance of fathers as active, nurturing, and present figures within the family unit. By portraying fathers in diverse, caring, and supportive roles, the collection aims to reflect the many ways in which they contribute to a child’s emotional, social, and intellectual development.
Fathers are a vital part of the family dynamic. Their presence, guidance, and encouragement can have a profound and lasting impact on a child’s sense of security, confidence, and identity. Through shared experiences—especially something as simple yet powerful as reading together—fathers and children can build strong emotional bonds that last a lifetime.
Reading not only supports a child’s literacy and imagination, but it also creates moments of connection. When fathers read with their children, they participate directly in their learning journey while also creating a safe space for conversation, curiosity, and affection. These moments reinforce the message that fathers are engaged, supportive, and essential contributors to their child’s growth.
Ultimately, this series of titles aims to normalise and celebrate the father–child relationship in all its forms. By encouraging fathers to take an active role in storytelling and reading, the collection seeks to strengthen family bonds, inspire positive role modelling, and promote a culture where fathers are recognised as a vital and cherished part of a child’s everyday life.
Maurice The Author 