Yesterday was my first official day as a PhD student. I won’t lie, the imposter syndrome went into overdrive before my supervision meeting. But the meeting was so positive and reassuring, that I’m feeling okay now. Long may it last! If my enthusiasm matches my productivity, I’ll be just fine. Better than fine in fact.

As I mentioned previously, I have been reading in preparation for the journey. The latest title is ‘Understanding Representation’ by Jen Webb. There’s an awful lot going on in this book and although it’s not all relevant to my studies, I have found it a fascinating read.

My supervisor has set me three tasks. The first one is to read through the latest research regulations at ARU. I don’t think that I’m in for a riveting read, but I am sure that it will help to mark out the path I need to follow. The second is to edit and resubmit the proposal that formed part of my application. This is a little daunting, as it now needs to be refined and include a time line. I’m looking forward to revisiting it, so that I gain more clarity on where to go next. And the final task is to write a 500-word stream of consciousness review of a picture book of my choosing. I’ve chosen David Ouimet’s ‘I Go Quiet’ because I think that it is an outstanding example of neurodiverse representation.

My bibliography of picture books continues to grow. All in the name of research of course. Although, as a bookseller, it’s not a hardship to seek out more wonderful books. I’m also searching out texts on the following themes: disability (including neurodiversity) in children’s books; representation in children’s literature; neurodiversity, with a specific focus on autism. I’m going to be busy.

Until next time.