Disability is Political

When I set out to write my first book, Adventurous Adeline and the Back to School Party, I had big dreams and even bigger expectations. I imagined pre-order excitement, glowing media features, and perhaps even a few interviews where I could talk about the heart behind the story and why representation matters. In my mind, it was a straightforward path: write a story, share it, and watch it take off. But as with most first-time experiences, the reality was far more complex, filled with unexpected turns, delays, and hard-earned lessons that reshaped both me and the story I was telling.

Navigating the Unknown: Changes, Delays, and a Shifting Format

As someone who’s always been passionate about Disability Justice and representation, I was determined to create a story that made disabled kids, especially multi-marginalized disabled kids. Yet, despite my passion, the process was far from cut and dry. What started as a picture book intended for younger children gradually evolved through several formats. After months of revisions, feedback, and reimagining, the story found its final form as a chapter book, making room for deeper storytelling that I hadn’t initially considered.

Each change required me to step back, rethink my vision, and embrace a new approach. It was like rebuilding a puzzle over and over, never quite sure when I’d have all the pieces in place. And as the format evolved, so did the timeline. The release date was pushed back more than once, each delay carrying its own frustrations and questions. At times, the end goal felt like a moving target, always just out of reach. Through it all, I learned to adjust, to keep my vision flexible, and to trust the journey, even when it felt anything but certain.

The Surprise High of Pre-Orders

Then, something amazing happened that took me by surprise. The day after pre-orders launched, Adventurous Adeline and the Back to School Party became a top new release in children’s books on disability. Seeing that title next to my name was surreal—a beautiful reminder that people were genuinely interested in the story and its message. For a moment, all the delays, rewrites, and frustrations faded, replaced by this small but powerful victory.

That milestone fueled my excitement. I imagined the momentum building, the visibility growing, and the chance to spark the conversations I’d always hoped the book would start. In my mind, it was the beginning of a wave, carrying the story to readers everywhere who needed it. I held onto that feeling, trusting it as a sign of good things to come.

Anticipation Meets Silence

With the release date approaching, I was filled with hope and anticipation. I imagined media outlets reaching out, interview requests coming in, and articles highlighting the importance of diverse representation in children’s literature. I thought that the book’s message would resonate so naturally that it would draw attention almost on its own. But when the big day arrived, there was silence. Not one interview, feature, or media spotlight. The absence of attention felt strangely personal, as if all the passion and purpose I’d poured into the book had somehow missed the mark.

I’d set my expectations high, perhaps unrealistically so. I thought that sharing this story would instantly attract a wider audience, but instead, I was met with a stillness that forced me to reflect. The process humbled me, teaching me that recognition isn’t always immediate, and sometimes, it requires patience and persistence. Looking back, I realize that this silence gave me space to reconnect with the true purpose behind the book—a reminder that even if the media didn’t amplify my message, the story itself still held power.

Trust the Process

As I processed the experience, I came to an important realization: once people read the book, they’d connect with it in the way I’d always hoped. I needed to trust the readers themselves to find the heart of the story, to see the importance of Adeline’s journey, and to feel the representation that fuels every page. This journey isn’t just about immediate recognition or big media moments; it’s about letting the story find its way to the right readers, even if it takes time.

I believe now that Adventurous Adeline will reach those who need it, but maybe not in the ways I’d expected. The story has a purpose, and its impact can’t be measured by instant attention. Each reader who picks it up will add to the journey, and slowly, it will build the legacy I’d always imagined—one reader, one connection at a time.

Looking Ahead with a New Perspective

Looking back, the road hasn’t been easy or exactly what I expected, but I’m proud of the story I’ve told and the journey it took to bring it to life. Writing this book has shown me that the impact of a story isn’t always instant; sometimes, it’s a gradual journey, or a “slow burn,” as I was told. The journey of creating something that’s true to your vision requires resilience, patience, and a willingness to let the story find its own way forward.

For anyone navigating a creative path—especially those of us committed to creating something authentic and important—remember that your story is worth telling, even if the spotlight doesn’t come right away. Trust that your message will resonate, and hold onto the belief that those who need it will find it. That’s what makes the journey worth it.