A MUM-OF-THREE special educational needs children has been left “overwhelmed and proud” of the reaction to her debut “vital resource” kids book.

Southender Leanne Thompson, 39, is on cloud nine after her short story Tilly Tortoise, which will form a part of a SEND Friends series, hit Amazon on Wednesday.

It comes as she wished for something similar when her little ones, aged seven, eight, and nine, were growing up so others could understand their needs.

Echo: Proud - Leanne Thompson with her debut children's book Tilly TortoiseProud - Leanne Thompson with her debut children's book Tilly Tortoise (Image: Leanne Thompson)

She said: “I was left feeling overwhelmed and proud by the amount of interest it generated when it hit Amazon last night.

“People have hailed it a valuable resource because of it helping others to understand their needs, and that means a heck of a lot.

“My kids didn’t have anything like this when they were younger, so I thought it would be a good idea to help others similar.

“If one child can share the story, resulting in more awareness, then it’s so worth it.

“I’m really excited to see what the future holds.”

In Tilly Tortoise, which has been self-illustrated and published, readers follow her adventures as she overcomes her difficulties with social overwhelm.

It is a short story that introduces children to “situational mutism and a brief lesson on how to help when a friend just can’t find their words”.

Right from a young age, the 39-year-old, has always loved writing.

For years, she has been bombarded with compliments about her storytelling ability, as well as calls to write books.

The mum-of-three decided to take the plunge last month and felt “so emotional” to see her finished work in her hands, with her family also feeling proud, as well as “inspired”.

Echo: Inspired - the ThompsonsInspired - the Thompsons (Image: Leanne Thompson)

Coming soon to the series include pieces about Rosie Rabbit, who just needs to move, and Oliver Owl, who cannot sleep.

She added: “This series is my way of supporting acceptance and accommodations in everyday life for all children to find a way to be their authentic, happy, confident selves.”

Tilly Tortoise is available to buy on Amazon now for £8.99.