In the Beginning, There Were Stories
Diane Ward had a secret childhood ambition to become a writer. She told herself stories in her head, whispered them to the breeze, and vowed that one day the stories would be told. But obligations, careers, and the passage of time had other ideas.
Retirement: The Canvas for Creativity
Let’s fast-forward to retirement. Time was Diane’s gift, at last, a blank canvas ready for her brushstrokes. So she started her writing career, armed with a lifetime of stories and a strong sense of resolve. The result? Her debut book, “The Cul-de-sac Kids: Fears,” whispers secrets from the shadows and crosses generations.
Fear: The Unseen Adversary
In the heart of Diane’s book lies a universal theme that is fear. The kind that grips our emotions at all times, regardless of age, are the common fears, not the ones that hide in the shadowy corners of haunted houses. Through her characters, Diane explores how fears can paralyze us, twist reality, and shape our choices. Dolly is shivering, terrified by a snake that only appears in her imagination, and Patty-poo’s tricycle is lying there abandoned. Fear consumes our souls at any age, striking us both young and elderly.
Unlocking the Magic of Engagement
Diane’s goal is to captivate her audience, provoking thought, emotion, and wisdom. But how? She weaves magic into her words, inviting readers to step into the story. And it doesn’t end there. Diane supports pursuits that are grounded in reality and reflect the challenges faced by the characters. Want to conquer your fear of heights? Climb a tree. Fear of the dark? Write a letter to the moon. Diane’s book isn’t just read; it’s lived.
The Notebook Chronicles
Behind the scenes, Diane faced her own challenges. Writing wasn’t just pen to paper; it was a symphony of planning, research, and dedication. Her reliable notepad served as her compass, a constellation of concepts, anxieties, and answers. She expertly handled the maze-like plot turns, making sure every scare had its moment and every lesson had its repercussions.
A Life Lesson in Every Page
What sets “Fears” apart? It’s more than a story or a novel; it’s a life lesson. Diane’s characters grapple with fears, but they also learn resilience, friendship, and courage. Turning the pages, readers find themselves confronted with creatures and dancing with shadows that represent their own anxieties. And perhaps, just perhaps, they’ll find solace in knowing they’re not alone.
Diane’s Confession: A Reluctant Reader
Diane confesses: She wasn’t a voracious reader. Books had to resonate and connect, or she’d lose interest. Sound familiar? Fear of boredom, perhaps? But Diane’s voyage showed her that phobias are universal; people fear words, pages, and the unknown. Her magic is in bridging the gaps and bringing stories to life in that way.
So, Dear Reader…
As you delve into “Fears,” remember: Fear isn’t the enemy; it’s the catalyst. Diane is calling you to go on the tricycle, confront the snake, and come out on top. And when you close the book, know this: Diane’s dream, once whispered to the wind, now dances in your heart.