Topics discussed in Zoey Wonders Why and the Great Catastrophe

There are so many topics I wish had been discussed as a child. As an author, I hold the pen and paper to discuss difficult issues I feel every child will go through from childhood to adolescence to adulthood.

Get ready for an exciting journey in my second book, where I'm exploring impactful themes like parents losing their jobs and navigating complex friendships! Reflecting on my childhood, I remember how my parents faced unemployment without much support in managing those abrupt changes and emotions.

That's why I created my main character, Zoey, to tackle these challenges head-on. She's set to bravely confront the struggles of job loss and the heartache of being separated from her best friends. Join Zoey on this inspiring adventure!

The theme of toxic friends is highly relevant for the targeted age group, beginning in grade 5. At this stage, as children enter middle school, the friendships they form significantly influence their future interactions with others throughout their school years.

Peer pressure, the desire to fit into groups, and the experience of being teased are factors that can create anxiety in children during these years.

What actions should my main character, Zoey, take regarding the friends with whom she has shared countless memories over the past five years? Should she choose to let them go and seek out a new circle of friends? Can today's 5th graders relate to Zoey's situation and make the decision to move on from friends who bring them down and make them feel less like themselves?

The upcoming book in the series boldly explores the crucial topic of self-esteem. Children aged 10 and above navigate significant emotional and personal development. In my own childhood, I was exceptionally confident and outgoing, although my teachers and elders didn't always appreciate it. As a result, I received an F for behavior on my report card.

I felt reprimanded for being who I am, so I chose to keep my thoughts and personality to myself, remaining quiet and becoming more introverted. Even now, I often observe people before engaging in introductions or meaningful conversations. I hope this book encourages children to develop self-esteem and recognize their self-worth, enabling them to be the best version of themselves on their life's journey.

Zoey wonders why, and the great catastrophe is set to be published in June 2025 as a middle-grade chapter book available on Amazon, Ingram Spark, B&N, and other retailers.

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