Why an 8-year-old from Hinckley dressed as herself on World Book Day

Eight-year-old Shyla Tanna, from Hinckley in Leicestershire, marked World Book Day by dressing as herself.

Instead of choosing a fictional character, Shyla chose to represent the real-life inspiration behind the children’s book Shyla’s Secret Sadness, written by her brother about her journey living with life threatening allergies and how it impacts his sister.

The story highlights not only the physical dangers of allergies but also the often unseen emotional challenges children can face, including anxiety, isolation and feeling different from their friends.

Shyla’s brother attends Dixie Grammar School in Market Bosworth, Leicestershire, where the idea for the book was developed to help others understand what life can be like for children living with allergies.

The book, supported by Allergy UK, explores how the emotional impact of allergies can affect a child’s confidence, friendships and everyday school life.

Today the issue of allergy safety in schools was also highlighted nationally on Good Morning Britain, following discussions around legislation allowing schools to hold spare emergency adrenaline auto-injectors such as EpiPen.

While families welcome the legislation as an important step in protecting children from life-threatening allergic reactions, Shyla’s family say it is equally important to recognise the hidden emotional impact of living with severe allergies.

Shyla’s family are also working with their local Member of Parliament, Luke Evans, to help raise awareness of the emotional challenges allergies can have on children and families, and to encourage greater understanding and support in schools and communities.

Shyla said:
“I wanted to dress as myself because the book is about my life with allergies. Sometimes it can make me feel worried or different from my friends, but I want other children with allergies to know they are not alone.”

By sharing her story on World Book Day, Shyla hopes more people will understand what it can be like for children living with allergies and help create kinder, more supportive school environments.