Q: First tell us something about yourself ?
With a profound interest in advocating for youth and individuals who struggle to find their voice. Kristin A Hassell has made it her goal to address the need for awareness in the mental health community. Kristin has 12+ years of experience in the fields of Mental Health, Behavioral Therapy, and Substance Use. Kristin is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor who holds a Graduate degree in Urban Community Counseling and Undergrad degree in Exercise Science from Norfolk State University; Kristin is determined to impact the lives of others through systems advocacy. Kristin is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and on her spare time enjoys giving back to the community through service and fellowship. She is an avid sports enthusiast who loves all Washington, DC teams. Kristin’s love for sports has led her to coaching high school track and field, as well as instructing peer and team developmental workshops. If there was a quote to live by Kristin would support the words of Stephen Covey: “Find your voice and inspire others to find theirs.”
Q: How and when did your journey start as a writer?
My Journey as a writer started when I was in the second grade. There was a competition with all 2nd graders in the area. If chosen, the high school drama club was going to turn your story into a short play and invite you and your family and give you an award. My story was chosen and I could remember how excited I was seeing my story come to life at a young age.
Q: When did you write your first story? Is it published or not?
I didn’t not start writing again until 2018. I had thought about that day in the 2nd grade and wanted to see if I could step outside of my comfort zone and make it happen again. Since then I have written two books, “My Secret Cardinal” and “What Will I Become?”.
Q: Tell us something more about your books?
“My Secret Cardinal” is a book I created that is based on a young boy who develops anxiety. I wanted to bring about mental health awareness to our young readers. “What Will I become?” is a story of a young female who finds comfort when she wears her superhero cape. She has a presentation at school and finds the confidence to wear her cape during the presentation as she explores different careers. This book is dedicated to all frontline workers as they are all superheroes.
Q: Why do you choose kids as your reader ? is there any specific reason?
I choose to write children’s books because I want to promote children’s literacy and imagination. A lot of children are not in the best situations and by picking up a book it can give them a moment of peace as your mind is able to at times shut out the world around you.
Q: How did these stories and characters come to your mind?
My stories came about as one is a rendition of my life in elementary school and how I developed anxiety. My second book was inspired by Vice President Kamala Harris and giving frontline workers credit for all they do.
Q: Do you want to leave any message for your readers?
I want readers to remember to always go after your dreams. Even if it does not make sense to others.
