Combining my two passions of children and writing was inevitable – the challenge has been finding the courage to start. After being encouraged by university lecturers and supportive friends, I have finally bitten the bullet and made tentative steps towards my dream of becoming a published author. This is my first attempt at fiction (other than my Facebook page ;o). Having worked in Early Years classrooms during my Bachelor of Education Practicum placements, I have become interested in how children view the world. They are fascinated by nature, concerned for the environment, and have a passionate belief that we should all – humans and nature – be able to live in peace and harmony together.

I live in a region that has experienced the effects of devastating natural disasters recently, and have observed how my young charges have processed this emotionally. I believe it is crucial for them to feel some sense of efficacy over these events to counteract the stress of what is largely an unexplained world to them. Providing them with knowledge, resources and strategies for coping during times of crisis gives them a sense of control rather than feelings of overwhelming powerlessness.

I hope that as this story develops, it will help children achieve this sense of agency, even if the solutions sometimes edge towards fantasy. It is more a message of how courage and action can be catalysts for change; how bravery doesn’t necessarily mean fearlessness; and the power love has in developing these traits. After all, isn’t a life blessed with love what we all aspire to?

I’m quite nervous about ‘putting myself out there’ by publishing my work to this blog, but need to start shaping my writing by taking these small steps before I attempt anything more ambitious. With that in mind, your comments will be an immense help in knowing if I have any ability worth pursuing. All comments are welcome, including constructive criticism (written with love, of course! ;o) to help me find direction and shape my writing. So please, if you do persevere with me and read this story, I would appreciate if you could post feedback or comments. Of course, encouragement is also greatly appreciated!! Oh … and for those of you who are wondering, yes – there is a little person in my life who has been the inspiration for the main character, Ruby Rose. ) With her in mind, I anticipate this story appealing to the ‘tweens’ – from age 8 to around 12, although I’m sure a few of us grown-ups will enjoy the chance to escape from reality occasionally too.

So grab a cuppa, put your feet up, and enter the magical world of Ruby Rose.

Looking forward to sharing the adventure with you!

Yvonne