At the age of eleven, I went through some of the most challenging times of my life. The obstacles I faced have helped shape me into the person I am today, and made me much stronger. My story is one of a harrowing truth, and something I will continue to share to help inspire others.
From being socially isolated from my friend group, to having ruthless rumors spread about me, I was certain middle school had become the cruel place everyone had made it out to be. My best friend had turned on me, and throughout the ostracism I had already been exposed to, I had lost the person whom I thought cared the most about me. At the time I was being socially ousted by my entire friend group, I was also asked to write a story for my sixth grade English class. That writing exercise led to me telling my story through the eyes of fictional characters, turning my bullying experience into a story. I started to write as a means of mentoring young minds from my personal experience.
My book “Charlotte McGee, Proud to Be Me” is about Charlotte, a second grade girl, who has always struggled with accepting what makes her stand out. Charlotte comes to learn that although she may be different when it comes to her appearance, her personality is what truly shines through! Throughout the story, Charlotte meets a second grade girl named Annabelle, who shows her the importance of loyalty and what it means to be a true friend. Annabelle was inspired by my best friend who stuck by my side all throughout the challenges I faced in middle school, and showed me there is that one person out there who truly cares about you. Everyone wants a friend like Annabelle, accepting and trustworthy. Little did I know that years later, my short, simple story would eventually transform into a book now made available to all children.
I now tell my story to let others know they are not alone, and that shamed individuals can triumph despite the obstacles they have faced. There are physical scars and then those that cannot be seen – mine is an emotional scar, and one that has affected me for many years. But I realize I am beginning to heal by telling my story to others in hopes of inspiring young children around the world.
You can purchase Brynn’s book, Charlotte McGee, Proud to Be Me on Amazon. Brynn is also booking speaking engagements at schools to read and speak about her book. You can reach her at brynntiano@gmail.com.
