Ella Larson, a senior at Dowling Catholic High school, grew a passion to write and illustrate a book that derived from her sister’s book about EMS (Emergency Medical Services) and she wanted to share her passions in the same way. “My goal was to combine volunteering with people who have disabilities and the topic of dancing since that’s a major part of my life” she recalls. 

After over two months of hard work, Ella’s book, In the Spotlight, came to life through hours of time spent on hand drawn illustrations. “The hardest part of the process was finalizing everything and making it fit the format,” Ella admits. While the book took lots of effort, her hope for readers is that they read and understand the ideas of confidence and diversity. 

In the Spotlight tells the story of a girl, Alyssa, in a wheelchair who feels unsure about joining the school dance competition. With the help of her neighbor, who is inspired by his deaf sister’s amazing rhythm, they form a group that celebrates everyone’s unique talents. A constant theme throughout is that true talent comes from embracing differences. Their journey shows that anyone can shine, no matter their challenges. The story encourages readers to find the best in themselves and appreciate the beauty in diversity.

This process has had many positives for Ella. “This experience is really rewarding because giving it to young girls has been an inspiring experience. Setting an example for them makes it worth it”.

Marley Lightkeeper, a junior at Dowling Catholic High School, inspires people to do the little things to make a big difference through her nonprofit Little Acorns. Her children’s book, Amelia’s Acorns, introduces children to the theme of “small actions, big results”. While Marley explored opportunities in community service, she saw that doing small things makes a difference through effort and passion. She realized that when reading her book “it makes a difference because they see the ‘forest of impact’ that it creates”. 

The book dives into the life of a young girl, Amelia, and her experience as a first grader learning what small things she can do in her community. Through planting an acorn, she learns that good things take time, and patience means everything. While helping others in her community with her Grandma, Carol, she learns the lesson that doing little things for others is an impactful gift in itself.

The publishing process has given Marley opportunities as well that stemmed from the action of reading the little kids in the community. “They realize they can make a difference”. Hands-on service has made a difference for her and she wants it to make a difference for them as well.