Q Which book in the series is your favorite, and why?
The Power of Respect: Forever Friends is my favorite because it was inspired by the real-life experiences of two former preschool students, Eleanor and Amelia, who are now 10 years old. They shared their heartfelt stories about overcoming challenges in elementary school, which made this book incredibly special. It’s a touching reminder of the importance of respecting others and building meaningful friendships, values that resonate deeply with both children and adults. Collaborating with them brought the message to life authentically and relatable, making this book a treasure in my series.
That said, each book in The Power Of series holds a special meaning for me. Whether it’s encouraging children to embrace kindness, empathy, gratitude, or positivity, each story reflects my passion for nurturing social-emotional growth and lifelong values. Every book is inspired by real-life experiences, heartfelt moments, and the children who’ve been a part of my journey, making the entire series a labor of love.
Q: How do you hope your series will impact young readers, whether in terms of literacy skills, empathy, or other values?
I hope The Power Of series impacts young readers by fostering a love for reading while instilling essential values such as empathy, kindness, respect, and gratitude. Through engaging stories and relatable characters, I aim to help children develop stronger literacy skills and a deeper understanding of social-emotional concepts.
I aim to empower young readers to navigate their relationships confidently, build meaningful connections, and grow into compassionate individuals who contribute positively to their communities. By encouraging dialogue between children and their caregivers, the series supports critical thinking and emotional awareness, setting the foundation for a lifetime of learning and connection.
Additionally, I hope the series finds a special place in educational establishments, such as schools, libraries, and early learning centers, where it can be a valuable tool for teachers and caregivers. To further support educators, all The Power Of series books come with free lesson plans designed to enhance the learning experience. These resources make it easy for teachers to incorporate the books into literacy programs and social-emotional learning curricula, fostering meaningful discussions and reinforcing key values in classrooms and beyond.
Q: What has been a memorable experience of being an author?
One of the most memorable experiences of my journey as an author was when Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, read The Power of Kindness: Through the Eyes of Children on her podcast Storytime with Fergie and Friends. Hearing her bring my words to life and share them with her audience was truly surreal and humbling.
The experience became even more extraordinary when I had the opportunity to meet her in real life. She was as warm and gracious as I had imagined, and our conversation reaffirmed the universal importance of spreading kindness. It’s a moment I’ll treasure forever, as it beautifully encapsulates the power of stories to connect people worldwide.
Q: What do you like to do when you’re not writing, and how do you stay inspired and energized?
When I’m not writing, I enjoy spending quality time with my family. We often vacation at historical destinations, where we can explore the past, and sunny beaches, where we can relax and enjoy the ocean. This allows us to experience different places, cultures, and cuisines.
I also love reading, particularly books by Debbie Macomber and Brenda Novak, which I often listen to on Audible to unwind in the evenings. Their storytelling inspires me to let my imagination soar and reminds me of stories’ transformative power.
Q: Can you share any upcoming releases or new titles in the series with us?
I’m thrilled to announce an upcoming title in The Power Of series: The Power of Encouragement. This book was inspired by an idea from one of my former preschoolers, who is now in 3rd grade. It highlights the importance of uplifting others, celebrating their efforts, and finding strength in positivity. I’m excited to bring this concept to life and continue sharing meaningful messages that resonate with young readers. Stay tuned for more details as the book takes shape!
