Look Within II: Environment is Key follows an ambitious and intelligent young boy who wants to help his village thrive after hearing the elders’ concerns about fuel sources. What was the inspiration for your story?

Look Within II, is the follow-up to my first ever published book! Look Within: a story about discovering the key to success. After receiving so much positive feedback, and the overwhelming love and support especially from young people. I was moved to expand the world created in the first book, and dive deeper into some of the aspects of personal development that many of the readers resonated with. Most notable the importance of environment.

Kim wants to fit in but struggles with interacting with his peers despite his intelligence. What was the inspiration for the main character’s traits and challenges?

The inspiration for our main character’s story was sparked by conversations I’ve had, mainly with young people, about the importance of looking within to identify our values, morals, and the goals we set for ourselves before seeking outside validation. We all find ourselves in various environments: school, work, community, clubs, religious groups, etc. From these environments, we naturally develop behaviors and traits, sometimes to “fit in.” However, once we truly understand ourselves—our likes, dislikes, and the things we need to help us grow and thrive—we become aware of how to shape our environment to suit US instead of trying to “fit in” to an environment that doesn’t align with our goals or bring us true happiness.

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

At this stage of my life, I am genuinely excited about learning. The most significant difference between my current mindset and me as a child in school is when I began seeking out subjects that genuinely sparked my interest. From my experience, the educational system often adopts a one-size-fits-all approach, neglecting the importance of personal introspection and taking responsibility for learning in alignment with our individual goals. Through an easily readable and well-illustrated story, my goal was to convey this message and inspire others to embark on their unique journey of growth, igniting their enthusiasm for learning and pursuing their genuine interests. I firmly believe that if I had been exposed to this perspective earlier in life, it would have profoundly impacted me. Therefore, my goal is to utilize these stories as a means to inspire and motivate others.

What is the next book in the Look Within series that you are working on and when will it be available?

I would really like to see more feedback, and support on my work up to this point. But I can definitely see the Look Within series as a trilogy! And depending on what conversations come from LOOK WITHIN books 1 & 2 a third book could be on the way very soon! So please PLEASE support and leave feedback, and I’m always very appreciative, and will continue to inspire through writing and working in my purpose.

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