Announcing: Stella’s Brave Voice

UPDATE: Since I initially posted this, I have announced the title of my second children’s book — the next title in what Arlene (my amazing illustrator) and I are coining The Stella and Paige Series. It will be called… Stella’s Brave Voice.

A little background on the story…

Some exciting news to share: Over the last several months I’ve been hard at work on my second children’s book. Book #2 (title to be revealed soon!) will also feature Stella and Paige, the set of fraternal twins we met in my first book, The Only Me.

In this book Stella practices speaking up for herself — something she doesn’t often get a chance to do since she has a twin sis who (lovingly) tends to talk for her.

This book, much like my first, was inspired by my own three girls. Let’s just say there’s definitely a bit of talking over and for each other that goes on around here! 😉 Plus, it can be scary to speak up. In fact, even as an adult, this is something I’m STILL working on (no shame, right? It’s a process…!). That said, as I continue to work on speaking bravely, it’s my goal to also help my kids feel comfortable confidently expressing themselves (their creativity, individuality, opinions, etc.) to our family and the world.

The Process

This book, similar to my first, flowed out of me. The idea came to me on a Sunday evening after I’d put my kids to bed, and I pulled out my computer and began to write. It just… happened. The next day, I re-read what I’d wrote. Some of it was garbage, but, much to my surprise, there was an actual story with an important message in there. I spent the next week re-working and writing, reading it to my own kids (who always offer amazing input and advice — and yes, I do listen and use their ideas!), revising and revising some more, until I felt it was finally ready for my editor’s eyes (thank you, Brooke Vitale; you are simply the best!).

Over the next several weeks Brooke and I went back and forth with the editing process — revising, adding in illustrative notes, brainstorming title ideas, and so much more. Finally, when we felt it was in its best shape, I sent it off to my exceptionally talented illustrator, Arlene Soto, for illustration and design. Now, it’s in Arlene’s brilliant and creative hands. Just as she did with The Only Me, she will bring this book to life with her beautiful illustrations. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with — I know it will be amazing!

Next Steps

Watch for updates here, or join my mailing list! But we’re aiming for a late August launch. Stay tuned!