Where
Where Stories Lead
Stories Lead
connection, curiosity, empathy, or helping kids better understand themselves and one another. Sometimes those ideas grow beyond the pages of a book.
They become conversations, student collaborations, community partnerships, and opportunities to put those ideas into action. This is where I’ll share those projects, the people who make them possible, and what we’re learning along the way.
My books often begin with a simple idea
SEEDS OF THE SUN
From Story to Connection
How it started - the book, meeting Tetiana, why Seeds of the Sun came to be.
As the war raged in Ukraine, I found myself wondering, What can a normal person do? I literally searched, “What can a normal person do to help Ukraine?” That search led me to ENGin, a program connecting Ukrainianas with English-speaking volunteers, and to an educator named Tetiana. What began as wekkly conversations grew into a friendship we realized we were both learning from each other. After I had the opportunity to meet with her students, an idea began to grow: What if we create a book that helped children become curious about Urkaine? After all, curiosity needs a little knowledge to spark it.
Kids Connecting Across an Ocean
Actionable Empathy
10 Computers! A 3D Printer! Router/Mesh Network! Tetiana requested equipment that would allow students to learn through the war.
“They will need to rebuild Ukraine!”
The Story Reaches Ukraine
The Next Chapter
Kids Talking to Kids!
"They just want to feel like normal kids."
– Liam reflected.
At the same school where students talk about volleyball, music, and simply being kids, remnants of weapons used against their community are displayed–some transformed by local artist into powerful works of art.
A Plan is in Motion
What Happens Next?
Get Involved
Join the next session: November 7 – Contact me (kelley@kelleypeel.com ) if you would like to watch the young people in action, via zoom.
Donate your time, talents, or through financial contribution.
Share the story with others.
Pick a project that interests you. Share your expertise with us!