My Heart Has Grown

My name is Lucas Foster, and I am a passionate 6th-grade teacher in Saline, Michigan. I love to write on various platforms, but I have always had a deep-down drive to write a book. I instantly felt the need to share the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on children. I have a unique perspective from both being a classroom teacher and through the eyes of my own children, ages 8 and 10. I was inspired to share this timeframe through the eyes of a child in a picture book format.

From school to sports, children lost so many things during the coronavirus pandemic. At a young age, many kids around us maintained a heroic sense of composure and flexibility.

My Heart Has Grown follows Charlotte through the lows and highs of social isolation. At times, the losses seem to conquer her life, but in the end, she finds she's gained more than she's lost.

As a first time author, the creation of this book was a fascinating process! I traveled through the writing process that I normally am teaching to 12-year-olds. Then, I worked with a professional editor and illustrator. We all worked well as a team and every step was enjoyable and also challenging. With working all online together, there were highs and lows, but in the end, we are all very proud of the work that has created.

I am so proud of the message of this book. Charlotte, the main character, realizes that so much has been gained. I am honored to share this story and message with others. We should look back at this time and reflect on what we've learned to better move forward.

Through the writing process, I have learned so much about the world of children's picture books. I'm proud to now be part of this category. Also, while writing this book, it has allowed me to evaluate everything that I have learned about myself and my family as we stick together during this time.

I firmly believe that My Heart Has Grown should be in every elementary classroom and home to assist with the important self-reflection process during and following the coronavirus pandemic.

Thank you for providing me with a platform to send this message to children and their families.