Bri: Hi Karen! Thanks so much for asking! I grew up in San Diego, am 16 years old, and am in 10th grade. My favorite classes are English and History.
KAO: You've told me previously that you grew up basically without your father being around. Can you tell us a little more about that?
Bri: When I was younger, my father was incarcerated on multiple charges, leaving me with only my mother. However, I had a very supportive family, grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins. I had a huge family that kind of filled in the gaps left behind by my father.
KAO: How did you get the idea to write a book about your father, and about your experience growing up with a father in prison?
Bri: The idea to write my book started out when I was younger, about 11. When I was that very young, I didn't understand that not many people were in the same position that I was in. I thought that maybe I could help the other kids that were in my situation. When I got older, and realized that I was one in a few, I decided to help the kids in similar positions.
KAO: It must be really difficult to put words down on paper, especially about such a sensitive subject. What keeps you motivated to write?
Bri: My motivation comes from the idea that I am capable of making a difference. Writing about such a personal matter is definatly hard, however, I continue to go back to the idea that I am capable of making a difference.
KAO: Do you have any special concerns as you write your book, worries like "everyone will find out!" or anything like that?
Bri: Many people already know about my father. When I was younger, I was a bit concerned about the reactions of people around me. As I grew up, I became less worried as time went on.
KAO: I want to tell you how brave I think you are for coming forward with your story and putting it out there; what are your hopes for the book, and who do you hope will read it?
Bri: My hopes for my book is just to share my story and spread awareness. I will be happy if I make a difference and I hope as many people as possible will read it.
KAO: What can we expect to see on your website/blog in future?
Bri: As time goes on, I will post exerpts from my book and have guest bloggers post about their experiences and knowledge.
KAO: What advice do you have for kids who might be going through what you're going through, who might also have an incarcerated parent?
Bri: My advice would be to stay positive! Lean on the people around you, they can help. If you need help, there are resources that you can access. For example, the internet resources on the side of this page.
KAO: Can you shar with us an excerpt of your blog?
Bri: This excerpt is part of my rough draft, so bare with me.
"The first memory of my father is of him painting my nails. He was painting them pink with little red hearts. I remember him bending over my nails, wearing my grandpa’s glasses to make my little nails more visible, and getting a phone call. He left the room and never came back. Twenty minutes later, I went out to the living room and looked for my daddy. He wasn’t there. My grandma finished painting my nails."
KAO: Thanks again for sharing, and I look forward to reading your blog and watching your book develop over the next year!
