Isla Bentley is a fifth grade student with not only a vivid imagination, but also an extra special writing partner. When Isla had an idea for a story, she teamed up with her mom, Vicki Bentley, to work on turning her idea into a shared storytelling experience. Together the duo has released their children’s picture book “Not Sorry to Be Me,” inspired by Isla’s own experiences growing up with autism and ADHD. For Vicki, writing the book was an exciting, yet familiar experience, as she is a writer and editor herself.
“Isla came to me with a story idea that I felt was especially meaningful and poignant since it reflected her own experience with autism and ADHD,” said Vicki. “She asked if I could write it and publish it so she could share the story with her class and other children who felt different.”
With an idea in mind, the two got to work, crafting what would become “Not Sorry to Be Me.” The book features Sorry, a cockatoo who is seen as different from the other birds in the forest, as he sees the world in color while the rest only see in black, white, and grey. This sensory overwhelm can cause Sorry to react in ways that irritate or seem strange to the other birds, causing them to miss out on the unique perspective he has to offer. One day, Sorry meets a kind, curious bird who asks to see Sorry's world through his eyes. From this shared understanding, a friendship is forged, and two lives are forever changed.
“Not Sorry to Be Me” allows Isla and Vicki to share their message, while also helping others learn more about neurodiversity. With a focus on the importance of friendship, inclusion, and acceptance, the duo is hopeful that the book can make a difference for children and their parents.
“I hope this shows someone that it’s okay to be different and children should never have to apologize for being themselves,” said Isla.
While the publication has been years in the making, both authors enjoyed the process and time that it took to reach print. Each took away something positive from the experience. Isla enjoyed being able to experience seeing her ideas and characters come to life, while Vicki enjoyed being able to work with Isla and help empower her with the tools to share about herself with confidence.
“We hope this book will be a great resource for parents and educators to talk to children about celebrating our differences and being a good friend to those who don’t fit the mold,” said Vicki. “When we are willing to see the world from a different perspective, it can be a life changing experience for everyone!”
The book may be purchased at Amazon or Barnes and Noble online. Congratulations to Isla and Vicki on this exciting accomplishment!