Writing, Resilience, and Inspiring Young Minds
Jan Ezelle discusses overcoming personal challenges, her inspiration for “Legend of the Dewberry Harvester,” and the importance of
blending education with entertainment in
children’s literature.
Jan Ezelle is a remarkable author whose journey into the world of writing is as inspiring as the stories she crafts. A graduate of The Institute of Children’s Literature, Jan has faced significant personal challenges, including hearing loss and Retinitis Pigmentosa, a progressive form of blindness. Yet, she has transformed these obstacles into a source of strength and creativity, channeling her experiences into her writing. Her debut novel, “Legend of the Dewberry Harvester,” is a testament to her resilience and imagination. This unique children’s story not only captivates with its charming characters and engaging narrative but also educates readers by weaving factual information into the tale. Jan’s ability to blend education with entertainment makes her work stand out, offering young readers a delightful and enriching experience. Her dedication to inspiring others, especially those facing disabilities, is evident in her writing, which carries messages of optimism, bravery, and personal accomplishment. Jan Ezelle’s contributions to children’s literature are truly commendable, and her story is one of perseverance, creativity, and hope.
In this interview, Jan Ezelle opens up about the personal experiences that have shaped her writing journey and the creation of “Legend of the Dewberry Harvester.” She shares insights into how her own challenges have influenced the themes of bravery and resilience in her work, the connection between human experiences and the natural world, and the importance of blending education with entertainment in children’s literature. Jan also offers valuable advice to aspiring writers and artists who may feel limited by their circumstances, encouraging them to find strength in their weaknesses and to share their unique gifts with the world. Join us as we delve into the mind of this inspiring author and explore the heartwarming story behind her debut novel.
In Legend of the Dewberry Harvester, Brewnie faces significant fears and obstacles. How did your own experiences with overcoming challenges related to hearing loss and Retinitis Pigmentosa influence Brewnie’s character development and the themes of bravery and resilience in your story?
I simply penned my obstacles into the little critter (smile). Brewnie actually reminds me of myself in several ways, having to overcome fears and obstacles during his adventure, just as I’ve had to do, living with a slight speech impairment due to hearing loss at three years of age, and later, Retinitis Pigmentosa that followed, a slow progressive form of blindness which also exasperated my insecurities. Just as Brewnie steps out into the world to face his fears and obstacles, I had to step out of my comfort zone and overcome my own challenges. Hopefully, I’ve not only accomplished something new, but managed to be an inspiration for others as well.
You mention that a single ant sparked the idea for your novel, leading you to explore the complex lives of harvester ants. How do you view the connection between human experiences and the natural world, and how did this perspective shape the narrative and moral lessons in Legend of the Dewberry Harvester?
The idea was sparked at a critical time for a deadline that needed to be met during my college credentialing. I had no idea what to write about, until I stepped outside into the sunshine. There, I spotted the protagonist for my story. Why ‘him’? Because, while there are other insect stories out there, this ant’s nature sent my curiosity into overdrive. Why was he alone? Where was he going? Where was his family? What was the motivating force behind his actions? After researching and finding answers to those questions, I discovered that a harvester ant, as
tiny as it is, and as insignificant as most of us consider it, has a very complex life that mirrors our own (Yes, it’s like us in many ways!). With this newfound knowledge, my imagination began to move me. And, I felt the need to share with the world!
Your journey into writing began as a way to find a new purpose after facing changes in your eyesight. How has writing not only served as a creative outlet but also as a means of personal empowerment and self-discovery?
I’ve had ‘why me’ moments, but I still find writing entertaining, and a means to step into another world; something I encourage my readers to do, especially those who may be experiencing difficult times, is to find their Gift. Not every reader will experience physical limitation, but we all do have some sort of disappointment in life. We can mold our weakness into strength and pass on the positive experience to someone else, as much needed encouragement.
The virtues of love, loyalty, and forgiveness play significant roles in your story. How do these themes resonate with your personal philosophy, and what do you hope readers, especially children, take away from these values in your book?
These values are important traits for our children to possess, all of us, especially in the world we live in today!
You’ve expressed a desire for Legend of the Dewberry Harvester to inspire others who face disabilities. What advice would you offer to aspiring writers or artists who feel limited by their circumstances, based on your own journey and the creation of this novel?
I’ve asked myself many times Why am I here? What is the purpose of my life?
I was blown away when I discovered that even my name means: Gift from God.
“Me? Really?”
My insistence to rise above the frustration of circumstances beyond my control is reassured by what St. Paul (who also suffered ‘thorn in the flesh’) said about his weaknesses being made strong.
While a reader here may have certain spiritual beliefs that differ from my own, or none at all, I respect that. I’m simply sharing what took place in my life. I’m also amazed at what God revealed to Moses (who like me), had insecurity in regard to his speech. “Please, Lord, I have never been eloquent.. for I am slow of speech and slow of tongue.” The LORD said to him, “Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes him mute or deaf, or seeing or blind? Is it not I, the LORD?” (Exodus 4:10,11).
(I’ve had to grasp with Who God is. He’s certainly the One Who has the say so!)
Thus, I questioned myself. Could my limitations be a gift, my weaknesses be transformed in a way that I can display God’s glory? If so, then it has not only affirmed God’s strength within me, but has helped me move forward (my eyes looking up) in life!
Please don’t misunderstand me. I’m not implying that I (nor anyone else) accept such limitation or handicap. Because God
does heal (for, I have seen that miracle through my own mother… and here recently, cancer removed from me).
I don’t know why, but God’s healing for my eyesight is still pending; and while I still wait, it has been lain upon my heart to encourage many: Pass your weakness onto someone else. Make your situation useful. Take God’s glory within you and share it with others in need. Help that someone face tomorrow.
I believe everyone is a ‘Gift from God’.
And so, my aspiration, and support for everyone, developed through the creation of “Legend of the Dewberry Harvester”.
The educational aspect of your book, intertwined with the narrative, adds a unique dimension to the story. How important is it for you to blend education and entertainment in children’s literature, and what impact do you believe this approach has on young readers?
If I had not implemented such factual elements about this nature, and it’s inhabitants, into my story’s characters and their settings, I don’t think a child—or anyone—would’ve understood the reasons, or purpose behind their actions—in an unfamiliar world, taking place underneath our feet. I believe it is important for people—especially children—learn to respect and revere the love and loss in the trials and triumphs of nature as God created it.
