A Friendly Ghost Story for Kids: Maddie – A Little Ghost with a Secret Launches October 1st

The Night Maddie Arrived: A Journey of Discovery

Two years ago, I made a significant change in my life. I left my professional career, and something unexpected happened.

One night, as I drifted off to sleep, a story arrived. It was in that quiet space where you're almost asleep but not quite there. I envisioned a little ghost who wasn’t scary at all. She looked right at the reader, as if she had something important to share. Something secret.

A few days later, I wrote what I thought was the story. But really, it was just the beginning—more of an outline than a complete book. What followed became my real learning journey as a children’s author.

Finding My Voice Through Mentorship

At first, I shared the story with a few young mothers, convinced it was ready. Their feedback was kind, warm, and encouraging, but also honest. They said the story needed more heart, more adventure, and more life for Maddie and her family.

So, I began rewriting. Again and again. For months, I worried if I was even a good enough writer for children’s books. Was my voice too quiet? Was my story too simple?

Then something wonderful happened.

My good friend David, a professional writer, took me under his wing. He began teaching me essential concepts about writing: story structure, character development, pacing, and voice. With his guidance, I started to see storytelling in a whole new light.

I also learned about cadence—the rhythm of words when read aloud—and the importance of page turns. These moments of surprise or delight keep children leaning in, eager to see what comes next. I had no idea these elements were at the heart of great picture books.

Little by little, I began to believe that maybe I did have a chance at being a children’s author after all. The truth is, it took me two years to find my writing voice, learn the craft, rewrite with courage, and finally feel comfortable calling myself a children’s book author.

A Golden Ticket in Grand Prairie

One weekend, my husband and I visited a new pop-up vendor show in Grand Prairie, a town I hadn’t been to since childhood. My husband thought it was a waste of time, but something inside me insisted we go.

While we didn’t sell much that day, I found a golden ticket.

His name was Steven Stewart, an artist at the show who had never illustrated a children’s book before but was eager to try. I told him about Maddie. A few days later, he sent me a sample sketch, and the moment I saw her, I fell in love. She was perfect. She was Maddie.

Leaning on Beta Readers

As a brand-new writer, I leaned heavily on beta readers for this book. I turned to family and good friends who I knew would be honest with me about my stories. I wanted to ensure that readers from various backgrounds could connect with Maddie and her journey.

Their feedback was honest, thoughtful, and kind. Every comment shaped the book in ways I couldn’t have achieved alone. I am so grateful to everyone who played a role in crafting this story. It is truly my first story, and it means the most to me personally.

A Different Kind of Halloween Story

What makes Maddie – A Little Ghost with a Secret unique is that it’s not about haunted houses or scary tricks. Maddie’s story is filled with Halloween charm, pumpkins, autumn nights, and a friendly ghost. At its heart, it’s about finding your special gift and learning where you belong.

It’s a story for children who love the magic of the season but want a tale filled with warmth, humor, and heart rather than spooks. Maddie might be a ghost, but her story is about life, love, and discovering what makes you well—you.

Early Praise for Maddie

Maddie – A Little Ghost with a Secret has already received wonderful reviews from Readers’ Favorite:

• “A fun, engaging, and amazing ghost story that will undoubtedly delight little readers.”

• “A captivating tale full of heart, humor, and charm.”

• “An excellent read-aloud about a little ghost who is brave, hopeful, and determined to discover her talent.”

• “Splendid illustrations with a touch of Halloween charm by Steven Stewart show a friendly spirit yet to discover her unique superpower.”

• “A story of self-discovery, family, the joy of sharing with others, and finding what makes you special—a must-read for the Halloween season and beyond.”

  
  

Hearing from real readers means the world to me, and I’m so grateful for every early review that celebrates Maddie’s story.

Two Years Later…

Now, two years later, all those pieces have come together.

Maddie – A Little Ghost with a Secret will be released on October 1st.

It’s a story about belonging, about finding your own special gift, and about realizing you have something wonderful to give the world, even when you feel different from everyone else.

Maddie’s story started in the quiet of my own doubts and dreams. Soon, she’ll be ready to meet you and your family, just in time for fall storytimes and sharing this special story with your children or grandchildren.

Stay tuned… Maddie has a secret, and she can’t wait to share it!