A copy of the book, “Evan and the Monster under the bed,” by Gardnerville resident Jennie Gould.
Any parent knows that monsters under the bed and wild imaginations can keep a child up at night. Inspired by the active mind of her own five-year-old son, Gardnerville resident Jennie Gould wrote, “Evan and the Monster under the bed.”
Published through Brooklyn Publishing, “Evan and the Monster Under the Bed,” captures those bedtime struggles, other not-so-perfect moments of parenting, and the values of family, into a collection of stories, insights, encouragement, and practical strategies to empower children and comfort parents.
Gould expected the book to be released on Friday on Amazon and Barnes and Nobles.
“It started as a way to sooth Evan, then it just grew from there,” said Gould.
The stories are real-life experiences set in their hometown, Gardnerville, that Gould and her family encounter through the eyes of Evan.
“Any one with young children can relate to these stories,” said Gould. “They’re meant to be fun while helping kids feel safe and letting parents know they are not alone in these experiences; that they happen to all of us.”
Gould said she has always had a passion for writing and would share her stories with her parents as a child.
“I would always give stories to my mom to read, and she would say to do something with my talent,” she said.
Gould finally took her mother’s advice and wrote the book in about two months, she said.
“As a parent, I am incredibly proud of Jennie,” said Gould’s mother, Gail Bailey. “Her journey from a courageous young woman to a published author is nothing short of inspirational. She has always had a heart for helping others, and now she is using her talent to inspire the next generation.”
Gould dedicated the book to her children, Jason, Patience, Bella, and Evan who appear throughout the stories and acknowledge those who have supported her, including her mother.
“My family is my biggest inspiration,” said Gould. “The stories are about Evan and the connection of siblings and family.”
Gould said the experience of writing is a powerful form of self-discovery through which she has confronted fears, challenged assumptions, and uncovered truths about herself that she never knew existed.
“Writing can be a mirror, revealing your innermost thoughts and feelings, and in doing so, it can lead to personal growth and transformation,” she said. “When I commit to writing, I embark on a journey that not only allows me to share my thoughts and experiences with the world, but it also helps me understand myself more deeply. Each word I write is a reflection of my beliefs, struggles, and triumphs.”
Gould said one of the most profound life lessons about writing a book is “your story matters.”
“As you write, remember that you are not just creating a book, you are crafting a piece of your legacy,” she said. “Embrace the journey, trust in your voice, and know that your unique perspective has the power to inspire and connect with others.”
Gould said she plans to write more books in the future.
“I plan to continue writing, I enjoy it very much,” she said.