A TALENTED 10-year-old girl from Penarth has been selected as the singing face of a new Christmas book.

Medi Owen, who goes to Ysgol Pen y Garth in Penarth, was selected from more than 100 people after her music teacher put her forward for consideration as part of a book – which is also planned to be made into a film – The Kringleset Chronicles, Rise Up, Rise Up.

Medi says she hopes the song, which can be downloaded on all major music platforms, inspires some hope at a difficult time for many this Christmas.

Something of a singing novice, Medi – who attends regular dance classes at Jeff Guppy School of Musical Theatre and Dance – said she was thrilled when after just a few sessions music teacher Amy Guppy asked to put her forward to sing the song for the book.

The audition – during the two-week lockdown – had to be done over the phone, but Medi was then chosen out of more than 100 contestants, and went to Carmarthen in November to perform the song in a recording studio.

“It was really exciting and something I’ve never experienced,” she said. “It’s been something to look forward to for me and for us all as a family.

“School have been really supportive too – my best friend loves it.”

The song is currently being used to promote the book – and has worked a treat with it currently being number two on Amazon Children’s Books.

Penarth Times: Sam, Medi, Cadi and DyfriSam, Medi, Cadi and Dyfri

Dad Dyfri Owen says while the pandemic has been difficult for everyone, his family - wife Sam, Medi, and younger daughter Cadi, have found plenty to be positive about.

“The pandemic has given us all a chance to be together more," he said. "With my job as a physio I often didn’t sit down and eat with the kids. It’s things like that which we’ve tried to appreciate."

Medi added: “The storyline of the book is linked to Covid. The main character is captured and taken to a different land, and can’t see her gran for a year.

“I think the song means even if you’re far away from family this Christmas, stay strong – because you’ll see them again.”

For more information on The Kringleset Chronicles, Rise up, Rise up visit https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?id=104200214843082&story_fbid=119125790017191.