Why Stories Matter—Especially When the World Feels Big

When I worked as a nurse, I learned quickly that most people don’t come into healthcare at their strongest moments. They come in scared, overwhelmed, and unsure of what’s coming next. A big part of my job was simply helping people feel safe—letting them know that even when things looked daunting, they weren’t alone.

That understanding has stayed with me and deeply influences the stories I write.

For kids especially, the world can feel enormous. New schools, new expectations, big emotions they don’t yet have the words for—it can all feel like too much. Stories offer a place to breathe. They create a safe space where kids can explore fear, courage, friendship, and hope from a distance that feels manageable.

When a child connects with a character, they’re not just being entertained—they’re practicing empathy. They’re learning that it’s okay to be scared, that mistakes don’t define you, and that bravery doesn’t mean fearlessness. It means continuing anyway.

That’s why I believe stories matter. They reassure us. They remind us that even when we don’t have all the answers, we’re capable of more than we think. And sometimes, that quiet reassurance is exactly what someone—especially a young reader—needs.