Being introverted is not a bad thing and a Richmond author and elementary school educator is telling kids to be proud of it in her first children’s book.
Sharon Dulay, a Richmond resident and a learning support teacher, grew up being labelled as shy.
But it wasn’t until she realized she was actually an introvert that she felt a sense of confidence in herself and that she wasn’t the “odd one out.”
“Sharing information about being an introvert has become something I’m passionate about because it wasn’t until my late 20s that I realized I’m not shy, just an introvert, and that was okay,” said Dulay, adding that she hopes she can spread the same message to kids.
“I’ve always had a passion in creative writing since I was a kid and being an author has been a goal of mine for a long time so this was the perfect opportunity to teach kids to be proud of who they are.”
Dulay self-published her book “Gia and the Moon” when she found a lack of books and resources for early learners and children on what being an introvert is.
Her book follows a young girl named Gia, who is excited to start first grade, but then discovers that she is an introvert.
The character worries that school will be different for her and goes on a journey to discover more about herself.
Dulay added that engaging with kids about topics like this can help with boosting their confidence and further their understanding that not everyone is the same.
“In society we get so much influence from others around and I want kids to know that they don’t need to be embarrassed to be called an introvert.”
Dulay’s book can be found online at www.everbeagency.com, Amazon and at Indigospirit in Richmond Centre.
