An Interview with Tinu Abass
I’m Tinu Abass, a UK-based writer with a passion for telling stories that uplift, educate, and reflect the beauty of African culture. I write both children’s books and fiction, with recurring themes around confidence, identity, healing, and the celebration of self.
My love for writing began when I was a child, devouring the works of Enid Blyton, Cyprian Ekwensi, and Chinua Achebe. Those stories shaped my imagination. But it was motherhood that truly ignited my desire to write, especially for children. I wanted to create books that not only entertained but also empowered children to embrace who they are, mistakes and all.
My debut children’s book, Lola and the Magic of Mistakes, will be out in September 2025. It’s a joyful story that encourages children to see mistakes as stepping stones rather than setbacks.
Professionally, I started out in nursing before transitioning into accessibility and usability design, work that has taught me the importance of inclusive storytelling and designing with empathy.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
The inspiration for Lola and the Magic of Mistakes came from both personal reflection and motherhood. I’ve always been deeply aware of how much pressure children can feel to be “perfect” or to always get things right. I saw how even small mistakes could make them doubt their abilities or shrink their confidence. As a mum, I watched my child struggle with the fear of getting things wrong. She would hesitate to try, not because she couldn’t, but because she didn’t want to fail. That really stayed with me. I wanted to write a story that would speak directly to that inner fear and gently shift it into something magical and empowering.
Lola and the Magic of Mistakes is my way of helping children see that getting it wrong is part of the journey, not the end of it. It’s a love letter to every child who’s ever doubted themselves and a reminder that mistakes aren’t flaws, but rather they’re fuel for growth, learning, and sometimes, a little bit of magic.
Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
Honestly, the title Lola and the Magic of Mistakes felt so natural once I truly connected with the heart of the story. But getting there wasn’t instant. I played around with so many title ideas, trying to make sure it captured the message I wanted to pass on to children, that it’s okay to make mistakes, and that there’s something really special in them.
It wasn’t until I watched my daughter make a small mistake one day, then turn it into something funny and beautiful, that it clicked for me. That’s when I thought, ”This is the magic. Mistakes aren’t something to fear; they’re part of growing, learning, and discovering.”
Describe your dream book cover.
I wanted something joyful, bright, and full of life, and that’s exactly what we created. From the very beginning, I imagined Lola standing confidently, surrounded by nature, with a sense of wonder and possibility around her. The illustrator brought that vision to life so beautifully.
The colours are vibrant and cheerful, and the butterflies and sparkles add that magical touch, hinting at the uplifting message of the story. I especially love how Lola is holding a book and a crayon. The small details speak to learning, creativity, and growth. Her little smile feels like an invitation to young readers: “It’s okay to try. It’s okay to get it wrong. Let’s make magic anyway.”
This cover feels like a celebration of childhood, of Black joy, and of the message at the heart of the story that mistakes aren’t the end; they’re often the beginning of something even better.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
“Unstoppable” by Sia
“Brown Skin Girl” by Beyoncé, Wizkid, SAINt JHN & Blue Ivy
“Rise Up” by Andra Day
“Roar” by Katy Perry
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
On the research side, I’ve been reading more about parenting, emotional intelligence, and African storytelling tradition books that help me better understand the emotional world of children and how stories can help them process big feelings. I’m also diving into fiction by Black women writers who explore identity and womanhood in honest, layered ways. It keeps me grounded and inspired as I write from a place of truth.
Books are such a safe space for me. They help me reconnect with why storytelling matters, especially for voices and children who don’t always see themselves reflected.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
Before stepping into the world of writing, I worked as a nurse, and that experience shaped so much of who I am. Caring for people, listening to their stories, and holding space for both their pain and joy taught me a lot about empathy. Eventually, I transitioned into accessibility and usability design, where I focus on making products and experiences easier and more inclusive for everyone, especially those often overlooked.
My readers wouldn’t know that I get some of my best story ideas while doing everyday things like washing dishes, walking to the shop, or just staring out the window. I’ve learned not to trust myself to remember them, so I jot everything down everywhere.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
While authors shaped my love for storytelling, it was motherhood that gave me purpose. Writing became less about just creating and more about healing, representation, and helping children feel seen, exactly as they are.
Where is your favorite place to write?
I don’t have one perfect spot. I write wherever inspiration finds me! But if I had to choose, it would be somewhere bright with music playing in the background. Sometimes I write at my desk; other times it’s on the sofa with a blanket or even at the kitchen table while dinner simmers. And honestly, some of my best ideas start in the Notes app on my phone or as voice notes while I’m walking. I’ve learned not to wait for the “perfect” setting, just a space that feels calm, honest, and mine in that moment.
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
I would tell her this: You don’t need permission to call yourself a writer. You already are one. Stop waiting for everything to be perfect, the right time, the right mood, the perfect title, or the “big idea.” Just start. Write from your heart. Someone, somewhere, needs the story only you can tell. I’d also remind her that doubts will come, and sometimes your own voice might feel small or shaky. But keep going anyway. Your words have weight. Your stories matter. And even if it takes time, they’ll find the people who need them.
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
I hope readers, especially children, walk away knowing that making mistakes doesn’t make them any less brilliant, worthy, or loved. If anything, mistakes are part of the magic. They help us learn, grow, and discover parts of ourselves we might never have found otherwise.
I want Lola and the Magic of Mistakes to plant a seed of confidence, that gentle voice in a child’s mind that says, ”It’s okay to get it wrong. You can try again. You’re still amazing.” If that message stays with them, even just a little, then the story has done its job.
Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.
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