You can

make a difference.

You can

make a difference.

You can
live your
dream.

You can
live your
dream.

We’re told over and over that it’s too hard to get published. It’s too difficult to create change in our schools, communities, and the world at large.

What’s the point? Why even try?

We’re told over and over that it’s too hard to get published. It’s too difficult to create change in our schools, communities, and the world at large.

What’s the point? Why even try?

But what if you could transform your discomfort and disappointment into courage and connection? What if the only stamp of approval you needed was your own?

But what if you could transform your discomfort and disappointment into courage and connection? What if the only stamp of approval you needed was your own?

I empower teachers, librarians, and writers like you to share, teach, and write stories about unlikely heroes who turn pain into action—even when it’s hard.

I empower teachers, librarians, and writers like you to share, teach, and write stories about unlikely heroes who turn pain into action—even when it’s hard.

Are you a teacher or writer who wants to dive into challenging topics in your classroom or writing, but are afraid to take the leap?

As a writer and former educator, that’s how I felt when I approached Mahatma Gandhi’s grandson to co-write the award-winning picture book, Grandfather Gandhi. Even though I wasn’t a published author, didn’t have an agent, and we’d never met in person, he said yes. Twelve years later, after a series of obstacles and rejections, the book was published to rave reviews and critical acclaim.

You can get to yes too.

You can change young people’s lives—and your own—by stepping into courage, whether you’re an educator, writer, or both. When I speak to your group, or work as your mentor, I will empower you to use the power of story to heal yourself and others.

Educators

Reach all students through stories. Invite me to speak at your school or conference.

Writers

Find your true voice. Transform your manuscript. You are more than one book.

Appeared In:

Courageous Creators Unite!

No stamp of approval is ever enough. So let’s stop seeking and start creating—a community of courage, connection, and YES!

I’ve heard Bethany speak several times. Each time, I’ve been inspired by her passion for writing and love of children. She delicately weaves social-emotional learning into her books and provides ample opportunities for teachers to have dialogues with students that stretch far beyond basic academics. Her literary contributions are exactly what teachers are searching for!

Cherish R. Skinker, ED.S

Educational Coordinator, Virginia Department of Education Region 5 T/TAC

Without a doubt, I wouldn’t have the stories I’ve written, my agent, or a picture book accepted for publication without Bethany. Her belief in me and my work has been crucial to my success! I’ve received many ah-ha’s from working with her, but one big one is that we can all use our pain and our fears to fuel our stories.

GLORIA AMESCUA

Author, signed by Full Circle Literary, Child of the Flower-Song People: Luz Jiménez published fall 2021 with Abrams Books.

Courage to Create Podcast

You’ll encounter many obstacles on the way to your yes, but you can take certain time-tested actions to stay inspired and resilient along the way.

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