The Story Behind the Story: HOME FOR A WHILE by Lauren Kerstein

The Story Behind the Story: HOME FOR A WHILE

Author: Lauren Kerstein 

Publisher: Magination Press

Illustrated by: Natalia Moore

Publication Date: February 2, 2021

In January 2016, I sat down to write a story about all of the children with whom I’d worked in day treatment centers, private practice, and in their homes. The words poured out of my heart. The original title was TRUE HOME. I wanted to capture the essence of the anxiety, displacement, and resilience of children in the foster care system and children struggling to manage their emotions. When I began working as a child andfamily psychotherapist, my goal was simple. I wanted to help children smile each day who wouldn’t necessarily have smiled otherwise. Although this goal was noble and is still the driving force behind my work, I quickly discovered there was so much more work to do. I realized we so often focus on pathology, negativity, and challenges, rather than strengths. I wanted to be sure that every child and every caregiver with whom I worked saw their strengths and learned how to capitalize on them. I hope HOME FOR A WHILE provides an example of the power of switching your lens, seeing your strengths, and learning ways to effectively manage big feelings for all children and families.

The incredibly insightful editors, art directors, and expert readers at Magination Press helped me polish Calvin’s story until it shined. And the unbelievably talented Natalia Moore brought Calvin’s story to life. Her illustrations breathed wonderful life into this story. I am so grateful! 

When we love others for who they are, we can change their lives forever. HOME FOR A WHILE highlights the power of this simple truth.

Lauren Kerstein is an author and psychotherapist. She is a Jersey girl at heart who currently lives in Colorado with her husband, their two daughters (who are beautiful inside and out), and their rescue dog. She is represented by Deborah Warren with East/West Literary Agency. Lauren's debut: ROSIE THE DRAGON AND CHARLIE MAKE WAVES (Illustrated by Nate Wragg/Two Lions) splashed into bookstores in 2019. The companion volume, ROSIE THE DRAGON AND CHARLIE SAY GOOD NIGHT (Illustrated by Nate Wragg/Two Lions), snuggled into bookshelves September 1, 2020. HOME FOR A WHILE (Illustrated by Natalia Moore/Magination Press) is expected February 2, 2021. Lauren also writes books in her field. Lauren is one of the founders of #ReVISIONweek, a judge with RateYour Story, runs a critique business, and is a long-time member of 12x12 and SCBWI. Visit her at www.LaurenKerstein.net, on Twitter @LaurenKerstein, Instagram @LaurenKerstein, or Facebook.

Check out the trailer for ROSIE THE DRAGON AND CHARLIE MAKE WAVES here: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-a9oEc6jHtQ 

Check the trailer out the trailer for ROSIE THE DRAGON AND CHARLIE SAY GOOD NIGHT here: 

https://youtu.be/WTzpglfNyHs

HOME FOR A WHILE is available to preorder! 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zmPoeWUBpU&t=8s