London-based Musician, artist, and activist Love Ssega has released his debut children’s novel, The Elementals: Wanzu Sets Sail, published by Little Tiger in March 2026. Using storytelling as a springboard, Ssega is visiting South London primary schools to introduce Key Stage 2 pupils to environmental issues and inspire climate awareness and action.
The first in a planned four-part series, The Elementals follows Wanzu and his friends as they embark on magical adventures while learning about environmental challenges and discovering ways to make a difference. The second book, The Elementals: Peo Saves the Trees, will be published in August 2026, with books three and four scheduled for spring and autumn 2027.
Since its launch, Ssega has been bringing the story to life in classrooms across South London, with live readings, interactive discussions, and immersive storytelling. Pupils follow Wanzu on a rescue mission in the magical world of Sealand, learning lessons about climate action and environmental responsibility along the way.
Ssega said: “Writing The Elementals has been an honour. I love using imagination to draw young people into environmental issues and show them how they can respond creatively and meaningfully.”
As a founder of the community-led climate initiative LIVE + BREATHE, Ssega combines art, music, and activism to empower young people and local communities to engage with climate issues. The initiative focuses on creativity as a tool for raising awareness of clean air and climate justice in South London.
Adding author to his extensive resumé, Ssega is also a founding member of the Grammy Award-winning band Clean Bandit, a multidisciplinary artist, and a commissioned creative for major institutions including the National Gallery, Royal Shakespeare Company, Serpentine, and Whitechapel Gallery. He is currently an Associate Artist at the Southbank Centre (2024–2027) and served as Philharmonia Orchestra’s Artist in Residence (2022–23).
Ssega will also visit Berger Primary School with music legend Brian Eno in April, sharing insights into environmental awareness and the arts’ role in inspiring positive change.
“Through storytelling, music, and imagination, we can empower young people to feel connected to the world and confident in their ability to make a difference. The Elementals is about sparking curiosity, hope, and action,” he added.
During the May half term holidays, Ssega will participate in Southbank Centre’s 75th anniversary Spring Family Fun, programming for families, delivering storytelling sessions, interactive workshops, and live appearances to celebrate the launch of The Elementals: Wanzu Sets Sail.
https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/love-ssega-the-elementals/
LIVE + BREATHE continues its 2026 programme with events during London Climate Week (21–29 June) and summer-long campaigns across South London. Founded in 2022, the movement harnesses art, music, sport, and creativity to tackle air pollution and environmental injustice, amplifying voices often underrepresented in climate conversations.
The Elementals: Wanzu Sets Sail is available now in bookshops and online.
