For most people, writing a book feels like a far-off dream. But for Bear Branch Junior High art teacher, Kent Byers, that dream began to take shape back in junior high, when an early love for storytelling first sparked. It was then that he began crafting short stories, dreaming up characters, and immersing imaginary worlds. Little did he know, his passion for writing would eventually evolve into something far greater.

“I’ve always been drawn to the magic of storytelling,” he shares. “In junior high, I loved creating new worlds and characters that felt alive in my mind. But I never imagined I’d one day see my own story on the shelves.”

Today, that dream has become a reality. His debut book is all about overcoming fear and finding courage—something that’s deeply personal for him. “We all face fears in life, but I think the biggest ones are the fears we create in our own minds,” Byers says. "I wanted to write a book that shows people, at any age, how to push past those self-doubts and fears that hold us back from our dreams."

The road to publishing wasn’t easy, though. In fact, it took eight years to finish this project. “I kept telling myself it wasn’t good enough, that the story or the illustrations wouldn’t be good enough,” he admits. “I was letting fear get in the way of my dream.” It wasn’t until he overcame those self-imposed obstacles that he finally brought his vision to life—and the result is a book that resonates with readers of all ages.

In addition to being a writer, Byers is also an accomplished artist and an art teacher, which helped bring his story's illustrations to life. “Being an artist helped me visualize the pages as I wrote,” he explains. “I could imagine exactly what the layout would look like in print, which influenced everything from color choices to composition.” The story and illustrations work together to create an immersive experience, guiding readers through the narrative as if they, too, are weathering a storm of self-doubt and fear.

But perhaps the most rewarding part of this journey has been seeing the reactions of families reading the book together. “That was my vision from the start—to create something that families could share, discuss, and experience together,” he says. “Seeing kids connect with the message and hearing their thoughts about it has been priceless.”

His students, of course, are among her biggest fans. “They think it’s so cool that I’m a published author and illustrator,” he says with a smile. “Reading the book to them in class and seeing their reactions has made all the hard work worth it.”

And while this may be the first book, it won’t be his last. Byers has multiple stories in the works, including one about a character overcoming a fear of the dark—a theme close to his heart. “Storytelling is a gift I inherited from my grandfather,” he shares. “He told the best stories, and I hope to continue that tradition.”

For those aspiring to write, illustrate, or pursue any dream, he has one simple piece of advice: “We all have a story inside of us. If it’s on your heart, share it. You never know how your words or art might change someone’s life.”

For Kent Byers the journey is just beginning—and her story is one we’ll all be watching unfold.