Social media guru turns author with new children’s book

The founder of social media consultancy Status Social has published a children’s book, which he hopes will encourage youngsters to replace screentime with the joy of reading.

Mark Saxby has released The Last Chocolate Bar in the World, an adventure story for readers aged seven to 11.

The story follows Armitage, a nervous boy who finds himself on an extraordinary journey to hunt down a mysterious bar of chocolate in a world where all cocoa beans have been destroyed by an evil tyrant.

Alongside his determined friend Ruby, he faces dangers, strange characters and a surprising twist as they try to track down the Earth’s tastiest treat.

But as the adventure unfolds, Armitage discovers something even more surprising: his own courage.

The idea for the book first came to Mark 19 years ago while he was on holiday in Brittany, France, and the story slowly took shape over time in a variety of local cafés and community spaces.

Mark, who is also the founder of educational charity Positive Social, said: “I wrote parts of the book on and off over the years in places like Littleover Methodist Church café, Harrison’s Hub at Pride Park Stadium (then called The Backyard), Swarkestone Nursery & Garden Centre and, more recently, in McDonald’s in Ilkeston while my daughter Amie was training with Amber Valley AC.

“Stories often grow slowly. This one has certainly had time to!”

Although this is his first children’s novel, storytelling has long been central to Mark’s career.

He is a former BBC and ITV journalist and now works with organisations across the UK, helping them communicate more effectively.

Mark said: “Armitage begins the story relying on others. But step by step he learns that bravery isn’t about being fearless – it’s about discovering you’re capable of more than you thought.”

Early feedback has been encouraging, with both children and parents praising the story’s adventure and humour.

Mark hopes the book will encourage children to discover the joy of reading and imagination, and as per his charity, encourage them away from social media and smartphones.

He is also keen to visit local schools to talk to pupils about storytelling, creativity and how ideas can grow into books.

The Last Chocolate Bar in the World is available on Amazon in paperback and eBook formats.