Bringing Stories to Life

By Kim Lengling

Holiday Book Fair

Reflections from a Holiday Craft Show & Book Fair

There’s something magical about a room filled with books. Authors chatting with excited readers, the soft rustle of pages being flipped through, and the shared joy of discovering a new story. It reminds me of why I do what I do. Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a Holiday Craft Show and Book Fair, and let me tell you… My cup was filled to the brim.

First, a huge thank you to Ellen Byham, who invited other authors and me to participate. Be sure you check out her books and her non-profit! http://www.beautifulbalanceinspirations.org/

Having set up my table the evening before the event, I arrived early in the morning, coffee in hand, and excited for the day and to meet other authors.

Before long, the venue was buzzing. People of all ages wandered from aisle to aisle, stopping to smile, ask questions, and pick up stories that spoke to them. Some purchased a book or two, and each time they did, my heart quietly celebrated. Because to me, it’s never just a transaction. It’s the moment my words leave my hands and land in someone else’s, becoming part of their world.

But that wasn’t even the biggest blessing of the day.

The Gift of Community

One of the most meaningful parts of being an author is the community that grows along the way. This event wasn’t only about selling books, it was about connection. I had the pleasure of meeting so many fellow authors and hearing how their writing journeys began. Some write fiction that sparks laughter and imagination. Some write nonfiction that comforts and educates. Others craft history into page-turning storytelling.

Do you know what all these writers have in common? Hope. Whether they’ve published three books or thirty, every single one is putting something positive into the world. And goodness… doesn’t the world need more of that right now?

Being surrounded by creators who believe in the power of words reminded me of how valuable these community events are for writers and readers alike. They bridge generations, spark conversations, and create friendships that extend long past the final sale of the day.

Why Reading Matters, For All Ages

As I chatted with families who stopped by, many shared stories of their own: a child who devours fantasy novels, a grandmother who has a stack of mysteries on the nightstand, a teenager writing poetry when the world feels overwhelming. Every book holds a different purpose, but the results are the same: reading opens the door to imagination, learning, and personal growth.

And oh, how important it is to keep that door open for our young people.

Books encourage curiosity. They foster empathy. They give children a chance to see beyond their own street, school, or circumstance. A reader becomes a thinker, and thinkers change the world.

There’s a wonderful example of this happening right now. Chris Clinard, the founder of Books4Guys and the Books4Guys Podcast, is building a movement that encourages young men to read by gifting books to them through high schools and universities. It’s a powerful mission. Young men who read grow into informed, confident, compassionate adult men. I encourage you to check out his mission at www.books4guys.com.

If you’re looking for a meaningful holiday gift for a child or teen in your life, consider a book. Wrap up adventure, imagination, and possibility.

Let’s Keep Sharing the Good Stuff

I invite you to stay connected to what’s new in my own realm of writing, dog-momming, and podcast hosting by visiting my website: www.kimlenglingauthor.com

And while you’re curled up with your own favorite warm drink, feel free to hop over to Amazon and browse my books. Who knows? You may discover a perfect gift for a fellow reader… or for yourself.

Every book you purchase, mine or another author’s, helps keep creativity alive. It’s a little act that has a big impact.

To my fellow authors: keep writing. Keep sharing your stories. To all the readers out there: never underestimate the power you hold each time you turn a page.

Together, we’re bringing more light into the world, one story at a time.

About the Author

Kim Lengling is a multi-published author, podcast host of Let Fear Bounce, proud dog mom, nature lover, and avid coffee drinker. You’ll typically find her walking through fields with a dog leash in one hand and a coffee in the other while ideas for future stories float around her head in giant, unruly thought bubbles. Her mission is simple: Spread hope. Share kindness. And remind people that no matter what, they are never alone.

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