Note from Elizabeth

When my favorite brother-in-law, Andy LaRowe, told me about his young granddaughter’s accomplishments as an author, I knew I had to share this with you.

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Sometimes the most meaningful connections begin with the simplest words.

When nine-year-old Julia Arabelle Barton’s grandfather (“Pops”) told her that writing a story was easy—all she had to do was start with “Once upon a time” and end with “and they lived happily ever after”—he wasn’t offering a formal lesson in storytelling. He was offering something much more powerful: encouragement.

She took him at his word, and the results were amazing!

Julia’s story became Abby and the Pack, a sweet tale about a girl and her sheepdog who ran off into the woods. In her search for him, Abby finds three other dogs who need love and a home. Along the way, she made friends with a squirrel, a fox, and a bear. It’s a story filled with kindness, loyalty, and the joy of caring for others—values that clearly run in her family. Her proud grandfather had the story printed through Shutterfly, turning a young girl’s imagination into a keepsake book.

Encouragement can transform

Encouragement, when spoken at the right moment, can change the way we see ourselves. It can turn hesitation into confidence, fear into creativity, and a passing thought into a published story. Julia’s grandfather didn’t just teach her how to begin a tale; he helped her believe she could write one.

Words of encouragement are a form of connection—heartspoken messages that tell others, “I see you. I believe in you.” They cost nothing but can mean everything. A teacher’s note, a friend’s kind comment, a parent’s proud smile—all can become the moment someone decides to take a chance, start a project, or share their gift with the world.

It makes me wonder how many stories, songs, and inventions have been born because someone spoke a few encouraging words at just the right time.

Heartspoken takeaway:

Encouragement is one of the simplest yet most profound ways to connect. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or planned. Sometimes all it takes is a gentle nudge—like “Once upon a time”—to help someone discover what’s already inside them.

Stories like this remind us how connection begins—with listening, believing, and a few kind words.

About the Author

Julia Arabelle Barton was nine years old when she wrote this book in 2024. She lives in North Carolina. She loves animals (especially her dog Buzz Lightyear), storytelling, and spending time with her family. Abby and the Pack is her first book—and perhaps the first of many!

About the Illustrator

Katia Barcena-Olvera was a sophomore at Salem College when she illustrated this book in 2024, working on a degree in Business and Technology. Her playful, heartwarming illustrations bring Abby’s story to life and perfectly capture the spirit of friendship and love that shines through every page.

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ABOVE: The author with her brother and “Pops”