a story about bravery, kindness and being yourself. now available!
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a story about bravery, kindness and being yourself. now available! 〰️
i wrote a book!
A children’s book about bravery, kindness and magic by laura leigh bean
When dark and gloomy skies arrive over thechildren’s beloved city, they’re left wondering when the sun will return. But one brave boy discovers a magic flashlight that lights the way—and with each step, he brings light to others.
Whether it’s rescuing a stuck cat, helping a friend in need, or shining a light on the beauty of hope, the boy learns that sometimes the brightest light comes from within. The Magic Flashlight is a heartwarming tale that teaches kids about kindness, bravery, and finding the light inside themselves—even on the darkest days.
the story behind the magic flashlight
In 2020, I watched as the world around me shut down. My boys were babies; 3 years old, and a new baby not even a year old yet. As I worried incessantly about what the future held, I looked for signs of hope that somehow it would all be okay. For me, but mostly for my boys.
At the time, we lived downtown in a very busy part of Chicago. For weeks in the early weeks of the pandemic, every night at 7pm, everyone would open their windows or come out on their balconies to cheer, flash their lights, and sound off air horns to say thank you to the healthcare workers—but what it also showed me was that we were all in it together.
I cried every single time. It was the exact sign of hope that I needed.
Later that spring, I sat on a park bench and wrote the entire story of The Magic Flashlight in one sitting.
It has taken me 5 years to illustrate the book; slowly sketching the characters and scenes and then bringing them to life. I am so proud of this work, and I hope it reminds my boys of the most important thing I’ve learned since those dark early days of 2020:
Being brave doesn’t mean NOT being scared; it just means moving forward one step at a time, right alongside your fear.
I hope the book inspires you and your loved ones to take that step and shine your own light—even during the dark times.