I got the most awesome email (with an even awesomer attachment) the other day. It said:
From my darling child to yours, I send you a message of hope and love. My daughter wrote this to Sam with no prompting from me (I did part of the tree illustration, that’s it!) This story is what she “wants him to think about in scary times.” We have so much to learn from our kids.
The email contained a book that her daughter wrote for Sam. I read it and got all teary. And then I realized I wasn’t just moved but impressed. The book is sophisticated, smart, and sassy. It’s a well-plotted, lovingly illustrated, inspirational story about a boy who triumphs. And I’m going to share it with you here. But first, I’m going to share the author’s (pseudonymous) bio:
Ms. Alexis Taylor is seven-and-a-half years old and lives with her two moms in NYC. She is starting second grade this fall. She enjoys Harry Potter, chess, robotics, writing fiction, minor cat harassment, and playing with her 18-month-old sister.
After I read the book, I wrote Alexis’s mom back to say that I loved Alexis’s book, and that I loved, loved, loved Alexis. And she replied: “We love her too—she is her own brand of fabulous—a completely sparkly alpha-girl who takes no B.S. from anyone—with a sprinkling of super hero.” Isn’t that what we all aspire to be?
Alexis is an inspiration to me, an unseen force of goodness for Sam, and a blessing for the world.
So, without further ado, I present you with Ms. Alexis Taylor’s book, which I hope will be published ASAP by a huge mainstream publisher.
Thank you, thank you, thank you to the fabulous new emerging children’s book author, Ms. Alexis Taylor! Your story will change the world.
Kimberly says
Great now I am crying. I wish the world could see things like Alexis does. Our daughter is non verbal and has Down Syndrome, people are quick to judge her as not having much to offer. What they do not take the time to learn is she is very clever and the funniest person I know. We need more people like Alexis.
shoffman says
Yes!!
Jeanie Wallenstein says
Yup, crying… I love to cry and now I know why! Thank you Alexis!!
Justyn says
Beautiful book, Alexis! I loved your words! They filled me with peace, love, and excitement. Thank you so much!
Michelle says
Yup… that is a star! That story was beyond fabulous! It’s nice to know that now-a-days its not “weird” to be yourself, it’s artistic. I’m glad the world is coming around. Slowly but surely, everyone will be comfortable like children are….. to just trust yourself and BE YOURSELF. My fiance’ (a transman) is my miracle. I’ve always wanted to witness a miracle and I did, it was him. Bless you and your family always..
shoffman says
Thank you, Michelle. And to you as well.
Patti says
Absolutely beautiful! =)
Elizabeth says
Isn’t it wonderful that if left to themselves, children will be loving and accepting. It gives me hope for the future of the world with children like “Alexis” in it! Bravo! I agree – “Alexis” needs an agent and publisher PRONTO! I will tell my little girl “Trust Yourself!” when confronted with peer pressure or bullying.