Are any stories in the book true?

Now that the Brave The Waves Book Club will soon be in full swing, the first question our participants usually ask is “Are any stories in the book true?

If I tell you, I will have to kill you. 

Kidding!

I will share one story – the waterskiing incident!

When I was 14 years old, I was hanging out with my girlfriends at a cottage. I slid down the ski dock and my baiting suit tore in half from the wood of the dock! We all roared of laughter, but I have to admit I was also totally embarrassed! I knew I wouldn’t forget that moment for as long as I lived.

When writing the book, I took what happened in real life and twisted it in a way to make it more exciting and impactful by adding Lizzie’s crush to the scene.

Want to know more scoop on how I wrote the book? Click here.

As far as any other stories go, I got the bulk of the bullying references from personal experience. I was apart of the 33% that has been the victim of bullying during middle school. (National Bullying Prevention Centre, 2016)

Look around your family, friends and peers. I can guarantee that most of them will be involved with some sort of bullying. Those bullied, those who bully others, and those who witness bullying. Some of the effects of bullying leave lifelong scars.

I unfortunately swallowed these situations but then chose to ask for help. I received professional support – the most healthy and best way to cope.

Although my own story was very different from Lizzie’s, I took what I experienced, added my imagination, and created a story so that readers will learn that you can and will get through these challenging middle school years. And move on, armed with resilience.

I’m so grateful to be able to have the opportunity to write what I’m passionate about and what I think will serve others. If you would like me to write about you and your passions for the Braves The Waves Journal, or for your own company, please be in touch.