The first book I wrote, The Universal Connector: What Chase Sees in Space, originated in a dream. But the reason it came to life, in the form of a book, is because I saw a need for this type of book.

As a third-grade teacher, I can’t tell you how many times a day I would watch my students look for a book and come up empty handed. Many of my boys would either end up with a favorite book they had read several times (too low) or a book they skimmed over but weren’t really comprehending (too high). I would do my best to get books in their hands that were just right for them, but there truly weren’t enough to choose from. That’s when I knew my idea for a book could reach those young readers who were ready for an adventure.

I would also see students eagerly reach for books, only to frown, seeing the characters on the cover looked nothing like them. I did my best to stock my shelves with diverse books. Every reader wants to connect with the characters and see themselves a bit through them. Zippia.com reported in September 2022 that over 75% of authors are white. My next book, Not Today, Josephine, has a main character who is bi-racial. Although my mind knows I won’t reach all readers, my heart wants more readers to connect to the characters.

I’ve had book pitches rejected because my characters weren’t “under-represented” enough. I had an agent ask me to make my ten-year-old main character struggle with his sexuality. Knowing that your best writing is when you write what you know, I had to decline that proposal. I am not the author for that character and knew it would come off unauthentic. I celebrate authors that can write to that, and other topics that readers can relate to. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there was a book for everyone on the shelves?

So, what book do you think there’s need for on our shelves? And here’s the bigger question, are you the one to write it?

Until next time, Happy Reading!