Why can’t I go outside?

Emily Merrifield, the daughter of national uniform and print support, Nigel Merrifield, has written and self-published a book about a little boy stuck at home during the current lockdown.

‘Why Can't I Go Outside?’ portrays life in lockdown for one little boy, who uses his imagination to come up with some interesting ideas around why everyone must stay at home.

Is it because there are giant dinosaurs sick in hospital? Are all the restaurants shut because of greedy dragons, who have eaten all the available food? Or is it perhaps because a giant troll has stolen everyone’s loo paper?

The book is written entirely in verse and is designed to help broach the many potentially awkward questions younger children have been asking their parents about the current situation. Emily has dedicated her book to the ‘key workers, who are working hard to keep this country running during the coronavirus outbreak.’ – Including, of course, our very own postmen and women.

‘The book is available to download for free on my Just Giving page,’ said Emily. ‘A donation to either one or two charities that we have decided to support at this time would be very much appreciated. They are Refuge, who help support women, men and children escaping domestic violence, and UNICEF, who have been working with the World Health Organization (WHO) to help limit the spread of covid-19 by providing essential supplies to health workers.

‘We hope you enjoy reading our story and that it brings some support, happiness and comfort in these uncertain times.’

‘We’re really proud of the book Emily has written to help parents explain the current situation to their children, and for her support for Refuge, which is a charity supporting women and children fleeing domestic violence,’ said Nigel.

‘Another nice touch we love is the mention of our 16-year-old golden retriever (Dougal) in the book. We lost him three weeks ago, which was particularly hard on Emily, but Ciara Long, Emily’s illustrator added him into the book for her, so Dougal could be remembered.’

Illustration by Ciara Long.