REDONDO BEACH, Calif. -- After struggling to find books that would inspire her daughters to recognize their inner beauty, author Jessica Collaço crowdfunded over $12,000 and created her own. Her book, "Firenze's Light" entertains and engages children while delivering an empowering message. However, there is something you won't find in Collaço's book.
"Firenze's Light" is the story of a firefly who does not like her light. When Firenze covers her light with a skirt, she thinks her friends will forget all about it. Then she meets a new friend who helps her realize the power of sharing her unique gifts. Typically in books that aim to nurture a readers self-esteem, the main character is teased or cast-out by others and their resolve to embrace their authenticities arrives quickly. Collaço chose to write her story differently.
"As a parent, I was frustrated when I couldn't find books that presented challenges using compassion and empathy," says Collaço. "So many wonderful stories spend a lot of time modeling unkind behavior. As an author, it's exciting to see kids learning all these great ways to be positive, authentic people and realizing that sometimes it takes time to love what makes us different."
"Firenze's Light" is available for purchase online at www.shineyourlightbooks.com and www.amazon.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR
Jessica Collaço writes books that encourage optimism, compassion, love and kindness. Supported by over 200 backers, "Firenze's Light" was funded using the crowdsourcing site Kickstarter.com. Jessica lives with her family in Los Angeles, California. You can read her blog at www.childunplugged.blogspot.com.
Angela Li studied Illustration at Art Center College of Design and since then has been working at a number of studios, including Disney Imagineering. She loves bringing stories to life through her artwork and when she's not working she spends her free time doodling or hanging out with her awesome cat! She lives in Los Angeles, California. You can see more of her work at angelaliportfolio.blogspot.com.
Media Contact
Jessica Collaço
firefly@shineyourlightbooks.com
