Literary Queen

A short story

Photo by Rashtravardhan Kataria on Unsplas

The real journey begins the second we realize it can never be meaningful traveling alone- Henery X

Literary Queen

2022, Henery X

Ever since she could comprehend, seventeen-year-old Shemille Lawson has never been without a book in her hands. Her love of reading stems from the fact that when her mother was pregnant, she always read aloud to her. Though she didn’t possess the mental capacity to comprehend what was being said, the vibration of her mother’s voice felt good to Shemille. And after she was born, the routine continued, and until she could read for herself. So, it did not surprise all who knew her well that she would not only write her own book, but start a publishing company as well.

Fall, 2017

“Ms. Wilson, I’m going to write a book,” twelve-year-old Shemille said with confidence. She was speaking to her English teacher, forty-year-old May Wilson.

“That’s a serious project, Shemille. It’s going to take some serious commitment,” May said cheerfully. She and Shemille were sitting in her classroom. It was after school hours, but May loved her favorite student’s desire to learn all she could about literature. So, she didn’t mind staying after to assist her.

“I understand it will not be easy, Ms. Wilson. But I already have a head start. I’ve read books on the process.”

“Now, why doesn’t that surprise me? You’re just a regular little book worm. So, what type of book are you planning to write?”

“One on the importance of reading.”

“Great choice. And you have a lot to write about, I’m sure.”

“I do. Actually, I’ve already started. I have a draft in a book template.”

“Alright now, Shemille. Go head on with your bad self,” May and Shemille laughed. “So, can I be of any help?”

“Sure. I’ve researched both self-publishing and traditional publishing. And based on my findings, I’m going to go the self-publishing route. What are your thoughts?”

“First, I’m always so in awe of how wise you are. It’s as if I’m speaking with someone my age. That’s the power of reading, huh Shemille?”

“Yes, Ma’am.”

“Now, to address your question. Self-publishing is good if you have the time it’s going to take to make it a reality. I mean, it’s a lot of work. Traditional publishing lightens the load, gives you the freedom to do other things, like write more. But it also limits your control, seeing they’ll be doing the bulk of the work after you have completed your manuscript.”

“And it’s the latter part of your answer that has me settled on self-publishing. I want the bulk of the control of my creation. The great part about it is I’m only twelve, so I have a lot of spare time. I can promote my book the majority of every day, and for free.’

“Excellent points, Shemille. Well, you know I’m here if you need me.”

“I know, Ms. Wilson. I’ve also read up on editing and formatting as well. My goal is to help other writers to become published authors. But first I have to complete the task myself.”

“So, you plan on writing your book, editing your book, formatting your book, and self-publishing your book?” May had a look of surprise on her face.

“Indeed I do, Ms. Wilson. And if I knew how to draw, I’d create the cover as well.”

“Wow! Well, I wish you all the best. And be sure to save me an autographed copy of your forthcoming book.”

“You’ll be the first person I give an autographed copy to,” Shemille said cheerfully.

Spring, 2022

Two-years after Shemille had told May Wilson she was going to self-publish a book, Reading Is The Gateway To Your Best Life was complete. And she had done everything she said she was going to do pertaining to her book. It wasn’t easy, but nothing in life worthy of having will ever be obtained without difficulty. Her book would do well thanks to her effort, as well as the effort of those close to her. And also like she shared with Ms. Wilson, and thanks to her firsthand experience, along with assistance from her proud parents, she started her own publishing company. And to date, Literary Queen, LLC has plenty of clients lined up, all eager to immortalize themselves via a published book.

“You did it, Shemille,” May said. She smiled afterward. She and Shemille were standing in front of Literary Queen, LLC, which was a converted warehouse.

“I did indeed, Ms. Wilson. Thank you for all your love and support. I’ll never forget how you spent your free time with me. It meant the world to me.”

“It was my pleasure, Shemille. I love it when a child is eager to learn. I’ll gladly exchange my time for an opportunity to help children.”

“You’re one of my heroes, Ms. Wilson.”

“And you’re one of mine, Shemille.”

The end.

What are you willing to sacrifice to live your dreams? If it’s not everything that has nothing to do with the journey, then your dreams will more than likely remain just that… dreams.

This is the sixth of ten short stories I’m writing and that will make up a book meant to inspire the inner child in us all. The main characters will all be under the age of eighteen, showing that there’s no age requirement when it comes to living dreams. I want the stories of these youngsters to encourage the elders who happen to read them because again, there’s no age requirement when it comes to living dreams.

Thank you for taking the time to acknowledge my offering.

Remember. I’m not here to convince you to believe. I’m here to offer you something else to consider.

May we never lose our desire to outdo what we’ve already done.

Peace, Love, and the utmost Respect.

#writewithpurposeonpurpose #creativessupportingcreatives #winningisourbirthright #selfloveisthebestlove #dreamcatcher #freethinker #writingisalifestyle