Pick Author’s Empowering Kids’ Book

July 8, 2021

Pickerington author Theresa Garee’s latest children’s book, Dear Daughter, means “to encourage those who strive to own their power and write their story”.

The story, featuring hand-painted pictures by first-time illustrator Kat Hudson and told in the form of a poem, compares life to a book.

“You are so much more than your cover, fill those pages with love, adventure, and accomplishments.”

Inspiration for Dear Daughter came to Garee while reflecting on the 12 steps of recovery she learned while in “Celebrate Recovery”.

“This is where I met Kat Hudson, the illustrator,” Garee said. “Kat was able to put all of the words into perfect illustrations that really brought the poem alive!”

According to the organization’s website, “Celebrate Recovery” is a Christ-centered, 12 step recovery program for anyone struggling with hurt, pain or addiction of any kind.

Maya, 13, of Ridgeview Junior High and Nakota, 10, of Toll Gate Middle pose with a copy of their mother Theresa Garee’s latest book, *Dear Daughter*.

The organization is nationwide with the nearest local chapter meeting at the Shepherd Church of the Nazarene, 425 S. Hamilton Road in Gahanna.

Dear Daughter is Garee’s second book. Her debut work, My Spots, brought awareness to the skin condition vitiligo through the first-hand experience of Garee’s daughter Nakota.

In My Spots, Nakota imagines herself as beautiful animals of the world who are known for their spots. She discusses how vitiligo makes her feel and how reminding herself of the beautiful animals makes her feel beautiful.

“Vitiligo affects one percent of the entire world’s population,” Garee said. “It can often leave people feeling alone when others stare or ask questions. Help your child understand the disorder with this fun and inspirational perspective.”

Garee’s books along with her newest work, The Seedling, can be found on Amazon in both paperback and digital forms. and at Higher Ground Books and Media.

The Seedling, which also features Hudson’s illustrations, is a story of a mother using the lifecycle of a dandelion seed to teach her children a lesson.

“We all often feel like the dandelion, unwanted, but through a child’s eyes (much like God’s) the dandelion is a beautiful gift,” Garee said. “I hope you enjoy each book for their different and yet similar intentions, to give hope.”

Garee also facilitates a monthly gathering of local authors both published and aspiring. Their Facebook page, “Author’s Court” welcomes new members.