What do you think, dear reader? Do you like stories with generational characters in a YA book? It seems more realistic. Whatever we go through in life, it’s never alone. It’s always with others, mostly family members and friends.
Family and friends are important to me, you’ll find my books cover family stories or deep friendships.
Why did I decide to create generational characters in a YA book?
I believe creating a story with generational characters in a YA book brings more depth to the story than just teenage angst.
In Before You Were Born we get to know Ellis Monroe, the grandpa to Cooper. His story comes alive through the way he interacts with his family, especially with his seventeen-year-old grandson.
Ellis reminds me of my dad.
I lost his everyday presence in my life in 2008 to war with cancer. And there’s been this void ever since.
Ellis Monroe gave me a chance to remember the little details about my dad and to dream about him in my sleep. Ellis is a fictional character, all fictional, but my dad inspired him into existence.
The things about my dad I want you to recognize as you read Before You Were Born:
- The way he loved my Mom, always giving her a kiss before he left and before he went to bed each night. You may not read about this in the book, but you’ll witness tender moments between Ellis and his wife, Elaine.
- The way he loved his daughter (me) and his grandkids. Ellis sacrifices so much for his family.
- He loved to fish and spending time on the lake.
- Goodness, he had this smile that made you feel safe.
- He became a guiding light for his grandkids, sharing life and stories. Ellis is a beacon of hope and grace and redemption.
- Dad gave the most important thing in life to his family–himself–every minute, every second of the day. You’ll see the character of Ellis Monroe sacrifice his life for others.
Ellis Monroe isn’t my dad, not even close, but the way he battles cancer, the way he loves, and the way he sacrifices. Those are the moments that I stop to remember my dad.
If you’ve loved and lost someone’s everyday presence in your life, take a moment and remember their laugh, their embrace, and their moments of grace.
And when you long for a story with generational characters, I’ll always have a story to share.
Looking for more clean reads? Here is the beginning of an impressive list. And if you are hungry for more about Before You Were Born, have a feast with the latest posts.
Let’s not forget about amazon reviews. If a book has offered you HOPE, leave a great review on Amazon and Goodreads. Your favorite authors will love your reviews.
