Introducing the cheekymono bookshop: Books for colourful family living
Some of the best things in life begin with a little curiosity. A story that opens up a new world, a book that helps us understand our feelings, or a few pages that inspire us to look at the everyday a little differently. That’s what I love about books, and it’s why I’m so excited to introduce the new cheekymono bookshop.
A little more colour, a little more curiosity
Cheekymono began with a simple idea; to bring more colour, more joy and more thoughtful living into family life. Inspired by my love of Peru, playful interiors and creative childhoods, I started designing joyful prints and curating handmade treasures that celebrate culture, curiosity and connection.
Books have always been part of that story, too. I’m a mum, a children’s yoga teacher and an endlessly curious person. Over the years, I’ve found myself returning to books that encourage us to slow down, connect with one another and see the world a little differently.
Eventually, I realised I wanted to bring all these books together in one place. Somewhere I could share the stories, ideas and discoveries that I genuinely love, and help other families find something meaningful to read, explore and enjoy.
And so, the cheekymono bookshop was born.
More than a book list
This isn't about collecting books for the sake of it. It's about finding the ones that stay with us, spark conversations and encourage us to think, feel and explore.
I've brought together a growing collection of books across a few themes close to my heart...
Some of the books are favourites I read with my own children. Others are books I use, or plan to introduce, in my children's yoga classes. And some are non-fiction titles that have inspired me, challenged my thinking or quietly changed the way I approach creativity, parenting, nature and living well.
Stories for little and big yogis to dive into and discover
Browse and shop a growing collection of books
Books to move, play and laugh with, finger puppets encouraged!
Yoga, mindfulness and emotional wellbeing
Books that introduce children to movement, breathing, mindfulness and the wonderful world of feelings. These are stories and resources that can help little ones understand themselves, find moments of calm and develop tools they can carry with them as they grow.
Creativity and self-expression
Books that celebrate imagination, making, exploring and being unapologetically yourself. I love anything that encourages children to experiment, think differently and discover that creativity isn't about getting things right. It's about having a go.
Nature and outdoor adventures
From discovering the natural world to encouraging more time outside together, these books remind us that there is so much to explore just beyond our front doors. Sometimes all it takes is a little inspiration to turn an ordinary walk into an adventure.
Beautiful stories to read together
Because sometimes, a really good story is all you need. These are books to share at bedtime, curl up with on a rainy afternoon or return to again and again. Stories that introduce big ideas in little ways, encourage kindness and help us see things from another person's perspective.
Different cultures and curious minds
I'm particularly drawn to books that open up conversations about different cultures, communities, people and ways of life. Inspired in part by my love of Peru, I believe that helping children discover the wider world is a wonderful way to nurture curiosity, empathy and connection.
Non-fiction that inspires
Not every book on the shelf is for children. I've also included non-fiction books that have influenced my own journey, from creativity and parenting to nature and more thoughtful ways of living. These are the books that have made me pause, reconsider something or feel inspired to try a different approach.
Why I think books matter
As a parent and a children’s yoga teacher, I see how much children learn through stories, play and the conversations that happen around them. A story can help a child find the words for a feeling they haven’t quite understood. It can introduce an idea that stays with them long after the book is closed, encourage kindness, celebrate difference or simply offer a moment of calm in a busy day.
That’s why every one of my children’s yoga classes ends with a book. Each week, I share a story and invite the children to settle into Savasana, our final relaxation, or find another comfortable position where they can relax and absorb the story. It’s a lovely way to bring our practice to a close, giving little minds a chance to slow down, explore new ideas and simply enjoy being still for a while.
And the lovely thing is that we don’t need to turn every story into a lesson. Sometimes sharing a book, having a giggle or wondering aloud about a character is more than enough. That’s what I hope this collection encourages: less pressure to get everything right, and more opportunities to connect, create and discover together.
Supporting independent bookshops
The cheekymono Bookshop is powered by Bookshop.org, an online platform that supports independent bookshops.
This means you can browse my curated collection and purchase books through the platform, while helping support our very wonderful independent book shop; The Folkestone Bookshop. It's another small way to make more thoughtful choices about where we shop and who benefits from our purchases.
And, as with everything I do at cheekymono, there's a wider purpose behind it all. Supporting my small business also helps me continue creating joyful things and contribute to Project Peru, a charity close to my heart that supports women and children through education and community projects. Every purchase and every bit of support genuinely means a lot.
Come and have a look around
The cheekymono bookshop is a growing collection, so you can expect new discoveries and recommendations along the way. I'll be sharing more about individual books, the stories behind my choices and the titles that have found a place in our family life and yoga sessions.
Whether you're looking for a thoughtful gift, a new bedtime favourite, inspiration for your next family adventure or simply something lovely to read, I hope you'll find something here that speaks to you.
So, make yourself a cup of tea, have a browse and see what catches your eye...
With love and gratitude,
Sara x
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