Hello everyone!

As a kid (before the internet!) books inspired my imagination, taught me valuable lessons, and took me on many cherished adventures…all from my bedroom in a small town in MN. For as long as I can remember, I’ve dreamed of writing my own children’s book one day. Now, after years of working on this project, between raising my son and building my career, I’m finally on the verge of making that dream a reality.

Literally Lucy is a heartwarming, humor-filled children’s book about a bright and curious girl who experiences the world in a way that’s all her own - literally! When she hears it’s “raining cats and dogs,” she rushes outside expecting a downpour of furry friends. When her teacher tells the class not to “cut any corners,” she finds an imaginative way to finish her art project without scissors. Through Lucy’s adventures, young readers will laugh, learn, and discover the magic of language, perspective, common every day idioms and self-expression.

But Literally Lucy is more than just a fun story about wordplay, this book was inspired by my own family members on the autism spectrum. It is a heartfelt homage to the many ways neurodivergent thinkers experience the world. It shines a light on the beauty of unique perspectives and celebrates diversity, honesty, kindness, patience and empathy. It also highlights the many ways we are different, whether in the way we process the world, the way we look, or the way we express ourselves, and why those differences should be appreciated.

As the author and illustrator, I’ve poured my heart into every word and every brushstroke, making sure Literally Lucy is not just a story, but a reflection of the wonderfully diverse world we live in. The characters in this book represent a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, with the goal that every child can see a little bit of themselves in its pages.

Why I Need Your Help

My book is set to be published by Beaver’s Pond Press, with distribution through Itasca Books. But as an independent author, I have to cover the printing and distribution costs—about $10,000— to bring Literally Lucy into the hands of children, families, libraries, and classrooms.

Cost Details

This book has been years in the making. As a single mom, I’ve had to work on it little by little in between life’s demands, but I never lost sight of my dream of sharing this story with the world. Now, I’m asking for your help to make that dream a reality.

If you believe in books that celebrate the beauty of differences, if you want to see more stories that embrace creativity, curiosity, and unique perspectives, or if you simply want to support an independent author working to bring a lifelong dream to life—I would be beyond grateful for any contribution, big or small.

Every dollar helps get Literally Lucy one step closer to bookshelves, classrooms, and the children who will love and learn from it.

Ways to Support

• Donate: Any amount helps, truly. Even $5 makes a difference.

• Share: If you can’t donate, spreading the word is just as powerful. Share this campaign with friends, family, or anyone who might want to help bring Literally Lucy to life.

• Encouragement: Words of support mean the world to me. Publishing is a long road, and knowing people believe in this book keeps me going!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for believing in Literally Lucy, for supporting independent authors, and for helping make this dream a reality. I can’t wait to share Lucy’s story with the world—because every child deserves to be seen, understood, and celebrated!

With gratitude,

Mandy