Published: Sunday, Jul. 19, 2009
Julie Lynem: Children’s book series celebrates our differences
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closeAt some point, it happens to us all. Maybe someone teases you for being too short, skinny, fat or tall.
You look in the mirror and notice that you have fair or dark skin, an oddly-shaped nose, or ears that protrude. Or you learn that you have a disability or illness that sets you apart.
Whatever it is, there’s a moment when you realize that there’s something that makes you different, even unusual, but that helps to make you who you are.
As a society, we’re often too quick to point out our differences — whether they’re physical, socioeconomic or cultural — rather than celebrate them.
But Destry Ramey, an author and Pismo Beach resident, says it doesn’t have to be this way, and through a series of children’s books, she has set out to teach young people that “everything that makes you different makes you special.”
A former pediatric nurse and mother of a grown son, Ramey decided to tackle tough issues facing children after being diagnosed with cancer for a third time. Ramey, now in remission, was convalescing in her son’s home, along with his pugs Hunter and Ramona, when it occurred to her that the best way to make a contribution was through her writing.
“I’m a very spiritual person, and I believe that out of everything negative, something positive comes.”
The dogs — her constant companions, who also had a bout with cancer — became the main characters, taking children on an adventure while teaching them valuable lessons.
“I wanted to give children hope,’’ she explained.
So far, Ramey has written two books in the Hunter and Ramona series. In 2007, she self-published her first book, “What about me?” which explores the themes of adoption, persistence and unconditional love.
In “Why Am I Dark?” her second book (also self-published through Central Coast Press), a dark-furred pug named Hunter is rejected by other dogs because of his color. His sister, Ramona, helps him to understand that he’s valued, even though he doesn’t look like the other pups.
The book, which includes the artwork of Branch Elementary School students and the illustrations of Southern California artist Kim Howell, is set to be released Aug. 1. Ramey also solicited the help of Warfus Powell, a local musician, to put together an audio CD of the book.
In the future, Ramey would like to touch on such themes as obesity and autism. Her goal is to write 10 books in the series — not an incredible feat considering what she’s already overcome.
Her personal experiences with life-threatening illnesses and tragedy (her husband died when her son was 6 years old), she said, continue to inspire and motivate her to push for greater understanding and tolerance of others, regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances.
“We’re all unique, and we all have something to contribute to the world,’’ she said. “We need to teach these lessons early on.”
Meet The Author
An author launch party will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 1 at BWise School Supply, 1314 E. Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande.
A percentage of the proceeds from book sales will go to children’s literacy programs. To find out more about The Adventures of Hunter and Ramona, visit www.pugadventureseries.com.
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