By Marie Yates

I’ve never really understood the ‘black tie’ dress code. I don’t have a black tie, I don’t have a tie of any description and I’m not sure if it would be appropriate for me to turn up to an event wearing one anyway. I am, however, very willing to learn more about this code because I have the opportunity to go to an event that requires that level of formality.

Thanks to an incredible amount of support, Reggie & Me has made it to the final of The People’s Book Prize. I was excited that the book had been entered into the competition, so to read that it had reached the final was mind-blowing. This is the only book prize in the country that is completely in the hands of the public and that makes it extra special.

For me, the opportunity to share the message held within Dani Moore’s story, is something I do not take for granted. You see, I have been on an interesting journey of discovery since the story was published. As someone who can be annoyingly optimistic at times, it has come as a genuine surprise to learn that many people don’t want to hear a message of hope and positivity. There is, in my opinion, an unhealthy focus on the glorification of crime, on what may or may not have ‘encouraged’ a perpetrator and blame being aimed in completely the wrong direction. It has made me more determined than ever before, to talk about what I believe the focus should be. Dani highlights this for me and with her dog, Reggie, adds a new dimension to the notion of surviving and creating the best life possible.

That’s why I’m even more excited about Reggie & Me receiving enough votes to reach the final of The People’s Book Prize. It has given me reassurance that there are many more people out there who would like to read a story of hope and positivity. We do not have to turn crime, fear and personal trauma into entertainment. I will do whatever it takes to share this message with survivors and having this opportunity means more to me than words can express. If you are one of those amazing people who would like to use this as a catalyst for sharing a positive message and offering hope to those who need it most, please vote for Reggie & Me.

http://www.peoplesbookprize.com/book.php?id=1211 Voting is open from 15^th-27^th May and winners will be announced at a ‘black tie event’ on the 27^th. I’ll even get Reggie a black tie for the occasion.

THANK YOU!

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