NAU student fulfills her dream of writing a children’s book

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - A Northern Arizona University student from Yuma forfilled her dreams of writing a children's book.

Taylor Clarkson, a Yuma native, is helping kids be able to find their voice through learning, one page at a time.

"Although stories that include children with disabilities are on the rise right now we want to make sure that all children are seeing themselves through books," Clarkson explained.

Clarkson said ever since she was little she has always wanted to write a children's book.

"I remember writing stories in my journal when I was little and through projects...I was [a] Gowan Science Academy student, and we had lots of opportunities to do projects and I remember writing a little book," she explained.

Through her capstone project at NAU she got the opportunity to do just that while co-illustrating with another student.

The book, titled "Ruby Rose, to Speech She Goes," includes educational concepts to support parents and caregivers in their children's learning.

The book includes a parent guide to emergent literacy skills, defines terms, and has interactive questions for the kids to be able to put themselves in the shoes of others.

"The dream and the prayer is for kids to feel seen, and known, and loved, and supported in their learning," she said.

Clarkson wants kids to know to follow their dreams and never give up even when its hard adding, "I just want any kids in school in Yuma to know I just want to encourage them to chase their dreams because they will never know what that will come to later."

She added that she is very grateful to her family, NAU family, and Yuma family for their support.

"I couldn't have done it without the lord, I am just so grateful for this opportunity...it's just been the most surreal blessing ever," Clarkson expressed. "We want to foster a sense of love and care amongst the next generation."

You can find her book on Amazon or online at Barnes and Nobles.