I have been a dentist for almost 15 years.  I started writing roughly 6 years ago because I had an idea in my head that wouldn't go away.  That story stayed buried in the notes section of my phone for many months before I finally took out my laptop and started writing.  I was a dentist educated in the sciences, who was I to think I could write a book?? But the characters wouldn't stop talking to me. I needed to get their story out.  It was that imagination that helped push me past my insecurities.  It was the craving to create that proved to me that you can do anything you desire.  I still love getting lost in the words and seeing where the characters take me.

 

The books I wrote (a full-length novel and a follow-up novella) were intended for the adult reader. But even though I wouldn't (& still won't) let my three young daughters read them, watching me write and venture out of my comfort zone was an invaluable lesson for them.  I immediately noticed their increased interest in reading and writing. That alone filled my heart with such joy.  They have been my biggest cheerleaders since day 1, and so I made a promise to them almost 4 years ago—I would write a book that they could read and enjoy.

 

Writing a story for them has been such a blessing.  What I thought would be a short story, quickly transformed into a 400-page tale of fantasy, adventure, and personal growth.  My imagination has run wild, and it has been so much fun. I want my girls, as well as the other young minds I wrote this book for, to be part of the publishing process. I want to show them that you are always good enough to attain your dreams.  All you have to do is dream big and work hard. 

 

Imagination is the pathway to possibilities. Add in determination and hard work, and you will be unstoppable.

 

Getting a book out into the world requires so much more than just writing out your story, and I want to bring our youth along for the ride.  Hence, the WordSmithers program was born.  I want these young minds to use their critical reading and writing skills as my Beta Readers and Advanced Reviewers—the book is for them, their opinions are what matter.  They will see the drafting, editing, creativity, and artistry required to get to the finished product.  And in the end, they will know what an integral part they played.

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It is my hope to inspire youth to reach into their imagination, to create and to follow their passions...whatever they may be.

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Thanks for coming along for the ride!

 

Erin