One of Bradford’s most cherished writers, Sharena Lee Satti, has created a new children’s poetry book that captures the magic of the city. She is one of eight poets featured in Harper Collins’ new anthology, “My City & Me,” which focuses on UK cities.
The collection of poems explores themes of homes, cities, and the significance of our communities. Growing up on an estate in Windhill, Sharena turned to her diary and poetry to cope with a challenging childhood. After leaving school early to care for her mother, she discovered that poetry could help her heal and open up new opportunities.
As the author of “She,” Sharena hopes her poems will inspire young imaginations and instill a sense of civic pride. From poems about Lister Park’s historic architecture to her belief that Bradford represents “the Earth in one city,” her work reflects her deep love for the area.
“I love Lister Park,” Sharena said. “It’s beautiful. It has a ‘Narnia’ feel to it, with a magical vibe. I wanted to capture that in my poem. Some kids don’t always get to explore their city, so for many, the park is their little home.”
Sharena’s poem about Lister Park is featured in “My City & Me.” She believes Bradford has many beautiful places and green spaces that provide an escape. “I feel like Bradford is the Earth in one city,” she added.
On the streets of Bradford, residents greet each other with “Assalamu Alaikum” and “Namaste,” showcasing the city’s diversity. “That’s beautiful and makes us special,” she said. “For kids in London, this book will offer a different perspective on Bradford. For the kids here, having these books in schools will be exciting. They can say, ‘I’ve been to that park.’”
Sharena has been visiting schools to share her journey. She reflects on how her love for nursery rhymes and her early departure from school to care for her mother shaped her path. “To tell young kids that I have my words in a children’s book is a lightbulb moment for them. It shows them what they can achieve as they grow up.”
She expressed her excitement about working with Harper Collins. “It’s surreal. Seeing the finished product is huge. The kids of Bradford will be able to see themselves in poems.”
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