It's been a year since I debuted my children's book "Me is All I Want to Be" and last month, a bookstore owner placed an order I didn't expect. Not just copies for her shelves, but a bulk order for her local school and its counselors.

She told me not much captures her attention anymore, but this book did. She loved the message enough to make sure it reached kids (and adults) far beyond her own bookshop.

I wrote this book with a simple goal in mind: create a story that reiterates the message of my brand - individuality and freedom of expression.

The story follows Stereo, a skateboard-riding snake who wants nothing more than to wear a t-shirt. The problem? He doesn't have arms, and two bullies at his favorite tee shop make sure he knows it.

Stereo leaves the shop in a rush, embarrassed, convinced he can't wear something he loves.

But with the help and wise words from his friend Swish the Fish, Stereo realizes something: he can wear whatever makes him feel like himself, no matter what anyone else thinks. He rides back to the tee shop, faces the bullies, speaks his truth, and buys his favorite tee shirt, wearing it before he’s out the door.

Stereo's story is StereoType's story. It's the same lesson I've watched play out with my own twins, that individuality isn't something to apologize for, it's something to celebrate. 

That's the thread that runs through everything I do and everything we make. 

One year ago, I put that message into a children's book (and a song). A year later, it's finding its way into classrooms, libraries, and counselors' offices.

It's a reminder that stories have a way of finding the people who need them.

If you're a bookstore owner, teacher, or counselor and this story resonates - email me. I'd love to share a preview copy of "Me is All I Want to Be" with you. More on the song later.