Vernon author draws on his own life for children's book series

Ebonee Burrell, The News Herald
·4 min read
Kevin B. Edwards created a children’s book series that tells the stories of his life experiences through a protagonist character named Kevin.
Kevin B. Edwards created a children’s book series that tells the stories of his life experiences through a protagonist character named Kevin.

PANAMA CITY — Kevin B. Edwards shares his life experiences through writing children's books that channel the main character as himself.

Edwards, a native of Vernon, has spent enough days in Bay County to call it his second home. He worked with Bay District Schools and the Life Management Center for years before moving to Atlanta. In addition, Edwards made his way back to town this summer and hosted a writing workshop for Michael Grady's NuGulf Coast Camp at FSU Panama City.

"I have a lot of history in Panama City, and between working and visiting family here, I've grown a love for the city," Edwards said. "I'm still always visiting and excited for my next trip back."

Kevin B. Edwards' first book, "Kevin Turns Fear Into Feat," was published in March 2021.
Kevin B. Edwards' first book, "Kevin Turns Fear Into Feat," was published in March 2021.

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Edwards uniquely created a children's book series that tells the stories of his life experiences through a protagonist character named Kevin. He cultivated an interest in writing almost 10 years ago while battling depression, journaling daily to reflect on his livelihood.

The series came to life when he helped a young girl who faced bullying experiences similar to ones in his past. Edwards said he wanted to tell his story through a children's book and put it from a child's perspective.

"At first, I just planned to make up a story to help her better understand her situation, but for me, it was easier just to share my story," Edwards said about the purpose behind his first book published in March 2021, "Kevin Turns Fear Into Feat." "And I knew God wanted me to tell my story, so I put it into a child's perspective, and the book was more successful than I thought it would be."

He now is ready to release his second book, "Kevin's Big Win," on Wednesday.

The success of his first book opened many doors for him, Edwards said. The book — published in English, Italian and Spanish — sold out in bookstores and was displayed in public libraries, and allowed him to travel to schools to discuss the ideas behind it.

This resulted in "Kevin's Big Win" by telling more stories of his life experiences. In his second book, he dives into Kevin's Hawaii vacation, where he performs a song on a cruise ship that leads him to win the grand prize.

Kevin B. Edwards' second book, "Kevin's Big Win," will publish Aug. 17.
Kevin B. Edwards' second book, "Kevin's Big Win," will publish Aug. 17.

Edwards wants to go on a book-signing tour to several cities, including Panama City, following the release of "Kevin's Big Win."

Edwards plans to conclude the series with "Kevin Goes on Tour," which dives deeper into his journey on a gospel music tour in Europe. It is expected to release next year.

After the end of the series, Edwards hopes to write books for more ages.

Edwards said he focuses on balancing his daily routine to allow himself time to write. And with the help of local teachers to edit and George Franco to illustrate, he will continue writing for as long as he can.

"The feeling is astounding. My purpose for doing all of this is because I want to leave my legacy through my books," he concluded. "It just makes me feel good to know that kids enjoyed reading my book, and I hope they will continue doing so with my future books."

Interested readers can find Edwards' books for sale on Amazon or on his website, kevinbedwards.com.

A quick look at Edwards' first two books

"Kevin Turns Fear Into Feat" is a 32-page short story that takes the reader through a journey of how a young child being bullied found himself being fearful and struggling with acceptance from his peers. Being a victim of constant bullying in his community and at school, Kevin finds a way to overcome it. In the face of his fears, his musical gift is his saving grace. One day Kevin was asked by his teacher to sing in a school program. The opportunity changed his entire school experience and helped him conquer his fears.

"Kevin's Big Win" is an 88-page fully illustrated chapter book which dives into the story where Kevin and his family travel to Hawaii to promote his newly released music on the radio. While in Waikiki, Kevin competes in a talent show and wins the grand prize. Kevin is forced again to face his fears by using the lessons he’s learned to triumph in the presence of fear.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Vernon author Kevin B. Edwards releases second book, 'Kevin's Big Win'