It was a storyteller, a movie maker, or even perhaps a visionary leader in the making. In his mind, there was a constant flow of stories, characters and the never-ending desire to share them. Shanon was four years old then.

 

By the age of eight, he had created an entire school, a fictional dinosaur island and even a country, all in his mind. He would describe the people, the places and events in great details and they were my favourite entertainment on car trips, at the dinner table and before bedtime. Though he was a great storyteller, he struggled with one thing, and that was writing.

 

But his mum wasn’t going to let that limitation stop a fantastic story from going out to the world. With the help of some kind friends and family, we self-published a picture book, called Dino Island on Kindle. Sharing a good story was secondary, showing her son that dreams can become reality if we are willing to put in the work was the main purpose. 

 

So he became a published author on kindle at the age of eight. Though only known to family members and some friends, it was a tremendous confidence booster for Shanon.

Like many adolescent boys, Shanon drifted off the path of writing for a couple of years but found his love again when he was fourteen. 

 

When Shanon finished his book the end of last year, he needed a good illustrator to bring the book to life. I suggested that we approach a student I was then coaching who had a passion for art. Gary, who was also Shanon’s school mate, immediately agreed to help and worked tirelessly for the next couple of months. He was uncannily able to understand and bring what was stored in Shanon’s mind, the individual characters, the scenes, the world, to life just the way Shanon had pictured them to be. And Voila! We have the book cover design and artwork for an animation video too!

 

I am very proud of Shanon’s determination and his commitment to his work. As I am also looking to publish a book myself, I know it requires much determination and consistent effort to write a book of 76,000 words.

 

Through the journey, Shanon was supported by wonderful friends who read through the raw manuscript, gave him feedback, helped proofread and patiently listened to him as he spoke passionately and incessantly about his work. It was extremely heart-warming to see such great teamwork. It gives me hope that our next generation will be even greater leaders of the world tomorrow.

 

To Gary, Thomas, Chantelle and Theeraphat, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support to Shanon. And to the teachers of Primary and Secondary School who helped to mould and motivate Shanon, you have my utmost gratitude.

 

As for Shanon, this is just the beginning…the journey continues…Your encouragements will help Shanon goes a long way and we thank you for your support.

 

With Gratitude,

Winnie Peng

Mother of Shanon Chong

Enhanced Learning Coach

Founder of Epic Intellect