In the world of children’s literature, where every story aims to enchant and teach, a new treasure has emerged, sparkling with the promise of adventure and wisdom. “Something in the Basement: Fun and Frights in the Basement Below” by Malika Oakley, isn’t just a story; it’s a journey into the heart of childhood fears, wrapped in the warmth of a lesson well learned. This book, which is creating ripples of excitement among young readers worldwide, delves into the universal theme of facing one’s fears and the power of the truth to dispel the shadows of the unknown.
Unveiling the Shadows: The Heart of the Story
At the core of Oakley’s tale is Cecilia, a character who finds herself in the throes of unease in her new home. A presence, eerie and elusive, haunts the corners of her imagination, primarily lurking in the one place she dreads the most: the basement. This chilling setup serves as the perfect backdrop for a story about misconceptions and the monsters we create in our minds. As the narrative unfolds, Cecilia’s journey becomes one that every child (and, let’s admit it, adults too) can relate to—the journey of confronting one’s fears.
What makes Oakley’s narrative stand out is its groundedness in personal experience. Drawing from her own memories and her son’s apprehensions about moving to a new place, Oakley crafts a story that’s as real as it is fantastical. This blend of personal insight and imaginative storytelling enriches the tale, making it resonate with readers on a deeper level.
Beyond the Pages: A Lesson in Courage
“Something in the Basement” is more than just a spooky story; it’s a lesson in bravery. Oakley skillfully uses suspense and mystery to guide young readers to a powerful realization: often, the things we fear the most don’t have the power we think they do. Through Cecilia’s eyes, readers learn that the truth can illuminate dark corners and that sometimes, our fears are just figments of our imagination.
This lesson is particularly important in today’s world, where fear and uncertainty can feel overwhelming. Oakley’s story serves as a gentle reminder of the strength we all have within us to face our fears and the importance of seeking the truth, even when it seems hidden.
A World of Adventure Awaits
“Something in the Basement” will be available for anyone ready to dive into Cecilia’s journey. Mark your calendars for its release on May 1, 2024. Additionally, the first 50 customers can snag the ebook for free on Amazon.com on May 1 and 2, 2024, and for just $1.99 on all platforms until May 8, 2024. Don’t miss out on your chance to grab a copy.
It will be available globally through major retailers like Amazon, Kobo, Barnes and Noble, and as an audiobook on Audible, “Something in the Basement” will be within arm’s reach of anyone eager to join Cecilia on her quest. This accessibility ensures that children from different corners of the globe can embark on this adventure from the safety of their homes, learning and growing with Cecilia as they turn each page.
Malika Oakley’s masterful storytelling, grounded in her life’s experiences and her desire to empower young minds, shines brightly in this work. “Something in the Basement” isn’t just a book; it’s a companion for every child standing on the brink of their own basements, real or imagined, ready to take that brave step forward.
As readers accompany Cecilia on her courageous journey, they, too, will discover the magic that lies in facing fears head-on. Oakley invites everyone to unlock the secrets hidden in the shadows, to see beyond the darkness, and to find the light of truth and courage. With “Something in the Basement,” the adventure is just beginning, and the lessons learned will light the way for a lifetime.
We had the pleasure of interviewing the author. Here are excerpts from the interview:
Please tell us about your book ‘Something in the Basement: Fun and Frights in the Basement Below’.
My book is about a little girl who moved into her new house, but she thinks that there is something scary living in it with her.
Please tell us about your journey.
When I was eight years old, I moved into a new house, and I was scared of being alone in it. I thought every sound in the house was a ghost waiting to get me when I was alone. When my son was Seven, we moved into a new house, and he was scared as well. I created this story, and I would tell him this story every night. When I decided to write this book, my son asked me not to use his name and instead use his little sister’s name because she is a baby and he is not.
What are the strategies that helped you become successful in your journey?
I have a million stories that I would love to write. When I turned 39, I decided it was time for to sit down and start writing them down. The best thing I told myself was just to write. For years, I struggled to finish my first draft of anything. I enrolled in many writing courses only to be discouraged by the need to structure everything. This caused me to give up or become bored with the process. So, I decided that I would write and worry about structure later. In doing that, I have been able to complete a second picture book and draft of my first Young Adult novel. I did most of my writing during the pandemic lockdown.
Any message for our readers
The message of the book is really about making assumptions. How many times have we made judgments about people, places, or things because we heard something? How many times have you assumed that something was far worse than it really was, or have you realized that a negative assumption you had turned out to be untrue? When things scare us, we should confront them. Most of the time, it turns out to be nothing at all.
Thank you so much, Malika, for giving us your precious time! We wish you all the best for your journey ahead!
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