Category: authors

A Tiny Superhero with a Huge Heart

On March 27, 2017

In authors, disability, diversity, nursing, Superhero, Uncategorized

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Baby Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy 2 (Marvel) takes down a much bigger bad guy! Copyright Walt Disney Motion Picture Studios.

I have always loved characters that surprise me. Especially if that character is a child that no one expects to do great things. This character is found in all of my favorite books by Roald Dahl–unloved, orphaned, tiny, impoverished–whatever the reason, the world at large has low expectations for the character. And then, our scrappy little kid goes on to prove the world was completely mistaken and we learn that he/she is truly amazing.

In my recently completed picture book manuscript, my main character is certainly not the kid anyone would expect to be a superhero capable of stopping a notorious super villain in his tracks. But that is exactly what he does. My character was born with a disability that required him to have a tracheostomy tube placed in his neck to help him breathe. But don’t count him out just yet. He’s packing a hidden punch.

As a pediatric nurse, I’ve been awed and inspired countless times by the enormity of courage packed into tiny little bodies. Kids are my passion, and writing stories that show their powers (in ways the world doesn’t expect) is more fun than should be legal. I hope that one day this story will make it out into the world and you can share in the fun of watching my tiny little guy with the huge heart take down the bad guys. Until then, Google some videos of Baby Groot in action for a guaranteed smile!

The Song of the Valley Dweller

By Melissa Johnston Miles

On January 23, 2017

In authors, Novels, Uncategorized

Have you ever been to a place that has captivated you? A place with the spirit of an enchantress? Somewhere you want to stay forever? I’ve been fortunate enough to spend many hours in such a place. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia is a tiny valley that most people have never heard of- but if you’ve been there, you’re not likely to forget. It oozes with charm and a level of serenity that will almost convince you that you’ve stepped back in time.

My great-grandfather, Dr. John Coit, was captivated by the Nacoochee Valley. The views he saw all around him–mountains, streams, rivers, granite cliffs, waterfalls, sunsets, etc., inspired him to pen a poem titled, The Song of the Valley Dweller. It is a beautiful love story, written for a place, rather than a lover. The last two stanzas of the poem read:

Fair Nacoochee, Vale of beauty,

Thou has won my very heart,

All my love is gladly given,

For a smile of love thou art.

Lynch, Tallulah, Tray, and Yonah,

May thy circling summits high,

Ever guard this charming valley,

As the years pass swiftly by.

Then if I should fail to hear Him,

And these hand should folded be.

And this heart must cease its labor

Ere the Master’s face I see;

Then may those who know and love me,

Come and lay me close to rest

By the bright streams of Nacoochee,

Near the hills I love the best.

J.K. Coit, May 1922

Years after these words were inscribed as a tribute to the valley, his adopted daughter (my grandmother) moved there with her family. My grandfather became the only doctor in the valley and treated patients in a room converted into his office. The house, with its wrap-around porch and mountain views, was enticing enough to inspire someone in a NYC office to select an image shot from that very porch as the cover of the New York Times best selling novel, The Notebook.

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The 1800’s era farmhouse comes complete with ghost stories, Native American legends, and a sleeping porch upstairs with full windows on 3 sides. Lucky for my own family, and others who’d love to experience these majestic views for themselves, the house operates as a Bed and Breakfast named, The Stovall House .

If you do get a chance to stop in, I’d love to hear about it. Also, if you have a place in this world that has captivated you the way this valley has captivated me and so many others before me, please let me know.

Dragon Con 2016

By Melissa Johnston Miles

On September 10, 2016

In authors, Cosplay, disability, diversity, Dragon Con, Novels, Uncategorized

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I was fortunate enough to attend my first Dragon Con last weekend in Atlanta with my family. This was the 30th anniversary of the pop culture, fantasy, and sci-fi convention, and I was joined by more than 77,000 others on this adventure. According the the post- convention press release, “Fans came from around the world and all 50 states, with this year’s convention attracting people from as far away as Japan, New Zealand, and Fiji.” In other words, I was in good company.

What I knew about Dragon Con is that people engaged in cosplay–dressing up as their favorite characters from movies, comics, television programs, video games, and just about anything that reflects their interests. I knew this because I’ve assisted my young adult kids in making these costumes and/or purchasing items to make them look authentic. I vaguely knew that they held panels for people interested in writing because my daughter, who volunteered this year in media relations at the con, had told me about them last year.

What I didn’t know about Dragon Con could fill Lake Michigan. Here’s just a few facts that I found impressive.

The con has it own awards/recognition program called Dragon Awards. These recognize the creators of science fiction and fantasy in books, comic books, games and filmed entertainment.
The con raises money for charity. According to the press release, $98,000 was raised this year for its 2016 official charity, the Atlanta Center for Self Sufficiency, which helps put homeless individuals on a pathway to achieving a healthy independence.
The con attracts famous actors, writers, producers, etc. There was some serious talent in that place. There are far too many to name, but a few of the individuals that I’ve watched in television during my lifetime were in attendance such as Alex Kingston, William Shatner, Gillian Anderson, and Jason Isaacs and Adam Baldwin. There was a pool of talent at the con that would appeal to people of all ages and interests.
The sheer size of the con! I mentioned the numbers above, but nothing would prepare you for how many individuals (costumed or not) were crowded into a huge area of Atlanta. Event organizers added more than 215,000 square feet to the venues, including the AmericasMart Building 2. The con consumed meeting space in the Sheraton, Marriott Marquis, Westin, Hyatt and the AmericasMart buildings.
The con is quite civic minded. In addition to the fundraising efforts, there was a blood drive held in which over 6,000 units of blood and blood products were donated to an Atlanta blood bank. Also, disability services were visible everywhere and provided assistance to individuals with special mobility/seating needs.
The diversity of the people attracted by Dragon Con was one of my biggest surprises. There were people there who were less than half my age as well as people (almost!) twice my age. There were people there of every race, gender and socioeconomic level. Some costumes were Captain America shirts from Walmart and some looked professionally made to the cost of thousands. The attendees for the most part were gracious with posing for pictures, and seemingly unflustered by the long (and I mean long!) lines, wait times and sheer crowds you had to part to just move anywhere. I loved seeing families there with their kids, all in costume having a great time.
I’m saving the best for last. 🙂 I was stunned at the writing community that was in attendance. There were some terrific panels at the con on the writing craft as well as specific elements of publishing. Brandon Sanderson, who is probably best known for finishing Robert Jordan’s epic fantasy series, The Wheel of Time, was on a panel that I attended. I ran into him outside of one of the hotels and he was warm and gracious in answering a question and then chatting for several minutes. The authors who attended seemed very willing to interact and share insights with attendees. I was impressed with the breadth of options of panels to attend that focused on writing.

My takeaway from Dragon Con 2016 is that there is truly something for everyone there. If you’ve ever read or watched anything related to science fiction or fantasy, if you’ve ever watched superhero movies or read comics, if you enjoy art or especially if you like people watching–this is the place to be during Labor Day weekend in Atlanta.

Have you been to Dragon Con or think you might be interested? If so, I’d love to hear your comments! For more information on Dragon Con 2017, please visit the website www.dragoncon.org for more information. You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Photo Credits: Sarah Maney

Picture Books that Get The Big Picture

By Melissa Johnston Miles

On August 29, 2016

In authors, disability, discrimination, diversity, Family Life, parenting

As an author, a mom to a special needs son and a pediatric nurse, I am always on the lookout for books portray a realistic representation of the American demographic. We are not all “the same” and that is one of our country’s greatest strengths. One underrepresented group of kids that I’m particularly sensitive to are kids with ‘disabilities’ that make them look or act different from other kids. Here are some picture books for very young children that can begin to introduce characters with special needs in a positive light.

Keeping Up With Roo by Sharlee Glenn
I will admit that this book hits close to home. My older sister Mary Beth was always so excited to be an aunt. But each of her nieces and nephews, as they grew older, came to realize that she was different than other adults. This is what happens to the main character Gracie in this story when she starts school. When Gracie brings her friend Sarah home from school, she feels embarrassed about Roo’s behavior. Like all children who have a family member who is “different”, Gracie has to comes to to terms with her aunt’s differences and realize what is really important in life.
Susan Laughs by Jean Willis
I love the fact that this picture book focuses on all of the things the main character Susan does that are exactly like every other kid in the world. It isn’t until the very last page of the book that the reader will discover that Susan is in a wheelchair. I took care of a beautiful, smart and sassy little girl who uses a wheelchair and I see her on every page. I highly recommend this book to parents of preschoolers. When you reach the end of the book, the illustration of Susan in her wheelchair provides the perfect teachable moment to discuss all of the similarities Susan has with your own child.

3. My Brother Sammy Is Special by Becky Edwards
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I love the way this book explores the complex sibling relationship that occurs when one of the sibling’s has special needs. Generally that sibling is parented differently, with a different set of rules and expectations. The author allows Sammy’s brother to express his resentment and frustration, but ultimately focuses on his love and concern for his brother. This book would be the perfect gift for any child with a special needs sibling.

4. Just Because by Rebecca Elliott

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What I love most about this book is that the younger brother Toby is too young to understand exactly why his big sister Clemmie can’t do the things that other kids can–but he doesn’t need to. In his innocent and accepting heart, he just loves her like she is. The author depicts the positive things these siblings can do together, even if it isn’t what most siblings can do. The writing is beautiful and the illustrations are enchanting. Children with siblings like Clemmie are going to be faced with many challenges as time goes on, but this book’s purpose isn’t to tackle the hard stuff. It’s to focus on the love and affection that is at the heart of the sibling relationship. And it does it beautifully.

5. A Friend Like Simon by Kate Gaynor 51OijiofOVL._SX402_BO1,204,203,200_

This book doesn’t focus on the sibling relationship, but on the struggles kids on the autism spectrum have making friends at school. I love this book. I see so much of my own son in the character of Simon. This story is told from the perspective of a kid who is trying to be Simon’s friend at school. But it isn’t always easy. It takes more time and effort to get to know kids who are on the spectrum, but this book shows that it can often be well worth the effort. As a mom of a “Simon” myself, I appreciate the kids who make the effort.

6. The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig

51j3FlqSA9L For any parent of a quiet child that’s felt left out of the “popular group” at school, this book is a true find. The illustrations by Patrice Barton add to the impact of the words because Brian (the invisible boy) starts out gray and becomes more colorful as he begins to see himself as fitting in with someone–anyone. This book truly shows that it only takes ONE kind child to reach out to an “invisible kid” and make them feel a part of a class. Parents, I urge you to teach your children to be this one child. There are “Brians” out there in every classroom. I’ve taught elementary school, and I’ve witnessed the change one child can make.

This list is certainly not inclusive of all the excellent books out there. However, these 5 titles resonated with me in a special way. If you have other books to recommend, please comment and let me know about them. I’d love to hear from you!

**Please note that I am not the copyright holder for any of these books, and am using the cover images to aid in readers locating the books at their local stores or libraries.

The Heart of a Healer: Perfectly Captured in Print (Finally!)

By Melissa Johnston Miles

On September 3, 2014

In authors, Uncategorized

I originally posted this 3 years ago. I decided to share it again since I’ve read the 8 books of the Outlander series, and have almost finished watching all 3 seasons of the Starz series. Most of all, I’m sharing because I’m thrilled to be going to hear Diana Gabaldon speak at The Savannah Book Festival this week. Let me know what you think about Claire’s character, or how your own profession is portrayed in books and film.

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I remember years ago my husband and I were watching a movie in which Val Kilmer portrayed a Civil Engineer. As a CE himself, my husband couldn’t believe there was actually a movie that was showing the realities of the job. I completely understood the feeling! I have yearned for years to see a nurse portrayed in a way that I could really admire. There are plenty of books, movies and TV shows that glamorize doctors. But nurses are generally less than desirable characters who basically exist for doctors to “hook up with” in the linen closet. There have been a few exceptions over the years, but I’ve finally found a character that I can truly sink my teeth into! It was actually one of my readers who suggested the series to me, and I’m so grateful that she did.

Claire Randall in the Outlander Series is just that character. She is a combat nurse from WW II that is transported back in time to the Scottish Highlands. She loses her entire life and has to start from scratch. However, Claire has the heart of a healer as most of the nurses that I’ve known also have. Regardless of time and place, lack of supplies and medication or ever proper sanitation, Claire maintains her passion for helping others remain whole and healthy. The portrayal of this passion is so raw and realistic it makes me feel as if I’ve been called to her side to consult with her. The dedication she possesses (tasting urine when she suspects diabetes) goes above and beyond what most people would expect someone in her position to be willing to do. But she consistently does what her heart and desire leads her to do…giving 100% of herself for the chance to make a difference in another human being’s life.

I’ll admit to being a bit jealous that this character wasn’t written by me, but by someone who isn’t in the health care profession at all. According to her bio, Diana Gabaldon holds three degrees in Science, including a Ph.D. in Ecology. She is incredibly highly educated and her background gives her immense knowledge regarding the medicinal uses of various herbs and plants found in the Scottish Highlands. What amazes me is how well she is able to capture the feelings experienced by Claire when she is treating a patient. The euphoria of seeing a patient recover when you’d almost given up hope yourself is portrayed beautifully in these books. Also the heartache of losing a patient for reasons beyond anyone’s control is movingly described. Ms. Gabaldon brilliantly captures the gut wrenching despair Claire experiences when she knows exactly what to do to help, but the cure doesn’t yet exist in the time in which Claire finds herself. The time travel element to the novels throws in this unique twist that completely captivates me. How frustrating it must be to have the knowledge of what is needed without the ability to acquire the necessary resources!

As nurses, we carry work home with us every day. Those we could help, and those we tried desperately to help but couldn’t…despite our best efforts. When I worked in the Pediatric ICU at a Children’s Hospital in Atlanta, there were times that I had to sit in my car and have a good cry before I trusted myself to drive home. I am so grateful for the author who has created Claire and made her so real to me– a woman, healer, mother, and wife with all of her perfect imperfections.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Maybe I’m wrong and I’ve missed out on other great books with similar characters. If so, please enlighten me! 🙂 But for now, I’ll get back to reading the Outlander books and enjoying the bond I feel with Claire.photo credit: Starz Outlander Series