By Pam Wright, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Chatham Voice
Emerging author Joel Emery isn’t shy about sharing his journey with anxiety.
Now the Chatham resident has written a book to inspire others and let them know they’re not alone.
Titled “In My Write Mind: Musings on Mental Health, Self-Growth, Relationships, Everything in Between,” the non-fiction work invites readers to explore Emery’s life journey thus far.
“We are all connected by the human experience,” said the 38-year-old. “Our stories have the power to create connection, community and compassion. I hope that through my own experiences, someone will feel comforted, inspired or heard.”
Emery said he disclosed his challenges with anxiety in 2018 and this became the catalyst for the book.
However, he also looks to the example of his mother Deb Emery, who self-published a successful children’s book in the 1990s.
“My mom was such an advocate for reading, especially at an early age,” he said. “That’s how I perfected my writing skills.
According to Emery he’s been writing stories “ever since he can remember,” beginning by putting pencil to blue-lined paper.
“I always knew I wanted to write a book,” he added.
Emery, who also works in communications with the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent, will be available for a book signing at Turns & Tales in downtown Chatham Oct. 5 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The book is illustrated by Dresden artist Sarah Steele.
For more information and to find out when the book is available online visit www.thewritejoel.com.
In My Write Mind is self-published through Tellwell Publishing.
