Forever Changed Me:
A Love Letter to Judy Blume, Mara Brock Akil, and My Childhood Dream
We met in fourth grade. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing was our first interaction, quickly followed by Superfudge. I was a plump, nerdy kid who loved to read—and somehow, Judy Blume knew me. It only made sense that I’d write my first book in fifth grade after reading Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. Judy’s words inspired me to write stories about Black girls—something I never saw in the books I checked out from the Chicago Public Libraries.
I read Judy’s books over and over until the pages fell out and the covers tore. Of all her books, Forever had the most damage. Although it was published two years before I was born, Forever is my favorite Judy Blume book. I first read it in 1990, in seventh grade. It’s a young adult love story, and I’ve always loved love. I became a writer because of Forever. The title alone brings a special kind of feeling.
I read Judy’s books over and over until the pages fell out and the covers tore. Of all her books, Forever had the most damage. Although it was published two years before I was born, Forever is my favorite Judy Blume book. I first read it in 1990, in seventh grade. It’s a young adult love story, and I’ve always loved love. I became a writer because of Forever. The title alone brings a special kind of feeling.
As they navigate college dreams, family expectations, and the weight of identity in a digital age, their relationship grows, evolves, and is ultimately tested. The series explores intimacy, vulnerability, and the tender ache of growing up—all with authenticity and emotional depth.
Season one ends with Keisha heading to Howard University and Justin deferring Northwestern to pursue music. They part, not in heartbreak, but in hope. Forever isn’t just a love story—it’s a coming-of-age anthem. It’s also been renewed for a second season, and I’m already counting the days.
Season one ends with Keisha heading to Howard University and Justin deferring Northwestern to pursue music. They part, not in heartbreak, but in hope. Forever isn’t just a love story—it’s a coming-of-age anthem. It’s also been renewed for a second season, and I’m already counting the days.
I cried. I cried like a baby to see my childhood dreams come true. I had wanted to see Black characters in Judy Blume books since 1986. Mara Brock Akil didn’t just make it happen—she made it real. In true Judy Blume fashion, she tackled the things we don’t talk about openly: Who not to date as a Black boy. How to act when pulled over by police. A Black mom’s fear and pride wrapped into wanting her son to be with a girl who looks like her. It was all there—subtle, honest, and perfect.
If you're a writer or dreamer like me, ready to tell your own story, there are communities out there that want to help. One that changed everything for me is the Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp (https://bit.ly/AuthorBootcamp2025)—a five-week journey for writers ready to overcome fear and finally finish their book. This program gives you tools, community, and the encouragement you need to write with courage and clarity. It’s a sacred space for storytellers of every background to declare, “My life is a story worth telling.”
If you're a writer or dreamer like me, ready to tell your own story, there are communities out there that want to help. One that changed everything for me is the Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp (https://bit.ly/AuthorBootcamp2025)—a five-week journey for writers ready to overcome fear and finally finish their book. This program gives you tools, community, and the encouragement you need to write with courage and clarity. It’s a sacred space for storytellers of every background to declare, “My life is a story worth telling.”
Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp
Seeing Forever reimagined with Black characters told me that my stories have a place. Representation matters—it inspires us to write, to dream, and to know we belong. Judy Blume opened the door for me to write honestly. Mara Brock Akil swung it wide open and welcomed us in.
I’ll never forget the moment Keisha said something I’ve longed to shout from the rooftops: My life is a story worth telling.
Because in the end, Forever isn’t just about first love—it’s about finding yourself. And now, more than ever, I’m ready to write my truth boldly. If you feel that spark inside you too, don’t wait. Follow your childhood dream. Join a community that believes in your story. Enroll in the 2025 Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp, pick up your pen, and become the fearless author you were always meant to be.
I’ll never forget the moment Keisha said something I’ve longed to shout from the rooftops: My life is a story worth telling.
Because in the end, Forever isn’t just about first love—it’s about finding yourself. And now, more than ever, I’m ready to write my truth boldly. If you feel that spark inside you too, don’t wait. Follow your childhood dream. Join a community that believes in your story. Enroll in the 2025 Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp, pick up your pen, and become the fearless author you were always meant to be.
Unlock Your Writing Potential at
the Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp
The Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp is a dynamic and interactive program aimed at helping writers conquer their fears and develop their craft. Over the course of three months, participants will engage with expertly crafted texts and workbooks, gaining valuable insights and practical skills. Whether you are just starting out or looking to refine your writing, this bootcamp is tailored to meet your needs.
What’s Included in the Bootcamp?
1. Comprehensive Texts and Workbooks: The bootcamp provides a wealth of resources, including detailed texts and practical workbooks. These materials are designed to guide you through each step of the writing process, from generating ideas to polishing your final manuscript.
2. Interactive Lessons: Each lesson is designed to be engaging and interactive, helping you apply what you learn in real-time. You’ll receive constructive feedback and personalized advice to help you grow as a writer.
3. Expert Guidance: Learn from seasoned authors and publishing professionals who will share their expertise and insider tips. Their guidance will help you navigate the complexities of the writing and publishing world.
4. Community Support: Join a community of like-minded writers who share your passion and challenges. Collaborate, share experiences, and support each other throughout the bootcamp.
What’s Included in the Bootcamp?
1. Comprehensive Texts and Workbooks: The bootcamp provides a wealth of resources, including detailed texts and practical workbooks. These materials are designed to guide you through each step of the writing process, from generating ideas to polishing your final manuscript.
2. Interactive Lessons: Each lesson is designed to be engaging and interactive, helping you apply what you learn in real-time. You’ll receive constructive feedback and personalized advice to help you grow as a writer.
3. Expert Guidance: Learn from seasoned authors and publishing professionals who will share their expertise and insider tips. Their guidance will help you navigate the complexities of the writing and publishing world.
4. Community Support: Join a community of like-minded writers who share your passion and challenges. Collaborate, share experiences, and support each other throughout the bootcamp.
How Much Does It Cost?
The Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp is available for a highly affordable rate of $75 per month (June and July} for two months. This investment in your writing future provides access to a wealth of resources and professional support that can significantly accelerate your progress as an author.
How to Join the Bootcamp
Enrolling in the Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp is easy. Simply visit https://www.dreamwriterink4u.com/fearless-author-bootcamp.html to sign up. Once registered, you will have access to all the materials and can log in to the classes through www.DreamWriterInk4u.com until 11:59pm on December 31, 2025.
How to Join the Bootcamp
Enrolling in the Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp is easy. Simply visit https://www.dreamwriterink4u.com/fearless-author-bootcamp.html to sign up. Once registered, you will have access to all the materials and can log in to the classes through www.DreamWriterInk4u.com until 11:59pm on December 31, 2025.
Why Choose the Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp?
Choosing the Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp means investing in a program that understands the unique challenges writers face. This bootcamp is not just about learning how to write better; it’s about overcoming the fears and obstacles that hold you back. With a structured curriculum, expert guidance, and a supportive community, you will be empowered to write fearlessly and achieve your authorial dreams.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp is a unique opportunity for aspiring writers to grow, learn, and succeed. Don’t let fear hold you back any longer. Invest in your writing future today and take the first step towards becoming the fearless author you are meant to be. Visit DreamWriterInk to sign up and start your journey now.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a FEARless Author Bootcamp is a unique opportunity for aspiring writers to grow, learn, and succeed. Don’t let fear hold you back any longer. Invest in your writing future today and take the first step towards becoming the fearless author you are meant to be. Visit DreamWriterInk to sign up and start your journey now.
5 Myths About Writing a Book (And Why You CAN Do It!)
✨ Have you ever said, “I want to write a book someday…” but that day never seems to come?
If so, you're not alone. Most first-time authors struggle not with writing—but with believing they can write.
Let’s bust 5 of the most common myths keeping you from writing your book—and give you powerful writing activities to start today.
If so, you're not alone. Most first-time authors struggle not with writing—but with believing they can write.
Let’s bust 5 of the most common myths keeping you from writing your book—and give you powerful writing activities to start today.
✅ Myth #1: “I’m not a real writer.”
The Truth: If you have a message, a story, or a testimony—you are a writer.
✍️ Try This: Write down three things you’ve overcome, learned, or experienced that someone else could benefit from. Ask yourself: “What did I need to hear during that time?” That’s the beginning of your book.
✍️ Try This: Write down three things you’ve overcome, learned, or experienced that someone else could benefit from. Ask yourself: “What did I need to hear during that time?” That’s the beginning of your book.
✅ Myth #2: “I don’t have time to write a book.”
The Truth: You don’t need hours a day—you need a plan. Even 15–30 minutes a day can add up to a full manuscript in 90 days.
📆 Try This: Open your phone calendar or planner and block off three 30-minute writing sessions this week. Make it sacred. Protect that time. Writing is a commitment, not a convenience.
📆 Try This: Open your phone calendar or planner and block off three 30-minute writing sessions this week. Make it sacred. Protect that time. Writing is a commitment, not a convenience.
✅ Myth #3: “I need to wait until I’m more qualified.”
The Truth: Your life experience is your qualification. You don’t need a degree, fancy vocabulary, or a huge following. You just need a willingness to start.
🔍 Try This: Finish this sentence in your notes app: “If I had the courage, I would write a book about…” Then list five reasons someone else needs your story.
🔍 Try This: Finish this sentence in your notes app: “If I had the courage, I would write a book about…” Then list five reasons someone else needs your story.
✅ Myth #4: “Publishing a book is expensive and complicated.”
The Truth: Self-publishing makes it possible for everyday people to publish quality books without a huge budget.
🛠️ Try This: Research Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, or Draft2Digital—three beginner-friendly platforms for self-publishing. Jot down one question you have about publishing and drop it in the comments—I’ll answer it!
🛠️ Try This: Research Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, or Draft2Digital—three beginner-friendly platforms for self-publishing. Jot down one question you have about publishing and drop it in the comments—I’ll answer it!
✅ Myth #5: “No one will read my book.”
The Truth: There’s always someone waiting for the exact story you’re afraid to tell. You won’t know who needs it until you share it.
💌 Try This: Write a letter to your future reader. Start with: “Dear Reader, I wrote this book for you because…” You might be surprised how much it reveals about your purpose.
💌 Try This: Write a letter to your future reader. Start with: “Dear Reader, I wrote this book for you because…” You might be surprised how much it reveals about your purpose.
🚀 Ready to Stop Letting Fear Win?
Writing your book isn’t just possible—it’s powerful. You don’t need perfection. You need clarity, community, and a coach. That’s why I created the Becoming a FEARless Author BootCamp—a virtual program that helps you outline, write, and prepare your book for publishing in just weeks (not years).
📚 Join the BootCamp or learn more here → Enroll now
💬 DM me or comment below: “I’m ready to write my book!”
Let’s make this your year to write the book you’ve been dreaming about.
📚 Join the BootCamp or learn more here → Enroll now
💬 DM me or comment below: “I’m ready to write my book!”
Let’s make this your year to write the book you’ve been dreaming about.