Austin’s Amazing Adventures: The Unstoppable Duo

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New Children’s Book by The Blind Poet, Dave Steele, Launches Friday, 19th September

Manchester, UK – This Friday, 19th September, sees the release of Austin’s Amazing Adventures: The Unstoppable Duo, the second book in the beloved children’s series by award-winning poet, author, and advocate for the visually impaired, Dave Steele – known worldwide as The Blind Poet.

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The book follows Austin, a young boy slowly going blind, as he navigates school, friendships, and challenges with courage and independence. In this new instalment, Austin meets Josh, a new classmate who uses a wheelchair. The character of Josh pays tribute to Dave’s nephew, who sadly passed away from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy just after his 18th birthday.

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“Francis House means a lot to us as a family, and this book pays tribute to my nephew Josh, who spent many years coming here for respite care. To be invited to share the book at Francis House and honour the work they do is a real privilege,” said Dave Steele.

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A Truly Accessible Children’s Book

The Unstoppable Duo has been designed with accessibility at its core:

   •   Large Print Edition – for children and parents with low vision.
  •   Free Downloadable Audio Version – includes narration of the full text and detailed audio descriptions of Rebecca Price’s beautiful illustrations, accessible via a NaviLens code on the back of the book.
  •   PENfriend Compatibility – allowing children to hear the story read aloud, reinforcing independence and reading confidence.
  •   Braille Edition – in collaboration with the RNIB, a full braille version is available through the RNIB Shop website.

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“For anyone living with a disability, having access to spaces and stories designed with accessibility in mind is vital. With this book, we hope children of all abilities can enjoy Austin’s story fully,” said Dave Steele.

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A Story Close to the Heart

This book is deeply personal to Dave and his family. Inspired by his own experiences and his connection with Josh, The Unstoppable Duo celebrates friendship, resilience, and inclusion. The story is designed to provide representation for children with disabilities while offering families and schools a valuable tool to spark conversations about empathy, difference, and strength.

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The book was first shared with families at the Francis House Family Fun Day in Didsbury, a celebration of children and families, where Dave also read a specially written poem, A Place Called Francis House, celebrating the warmth, care, and hope that the hospice provides to families facing life-limiting conditions.

“My hope is that this book will not only entertain children but also support families, educators, and communities in teaching inclusion and celebrating difference,” added Dave Steele.

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Austin’s Amazing Adventures: The Unstoppable Duo is available from Friday, 19th September, in large print, audio, PENfriend-compatible formats, and a braille edition via the RNIB Shop.

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About the Author

Dave Steele, The Blind Poet, is an internationally recognised poet, author, and advocate for the blind and visually impaired community. His work inspires children, families, and educators, offering hope, awareness, and understanding of life with sight loss.

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Media Contact

For press enquiries, interviews, or review copies, please contact:
Email: Dave@TheBlindPoet.net
Website: www.theblindpoet.net