A home for emotionally resonant storytelling.
Books, films, and conversations that land in the bones and linger in the heart.
Stories, films, and creative work shaped by emotion, imagination, and meaning live here.
In this space, childhood is treated with depth, wonder is approached with honesty, and storytelling is allowed to be both tender and true.
From picture books and films to reflective collaborations and creative work, everything made here is rooted in emotional resonance, quiet beauty, and the belief that meaningful stories stay with us long after the page is turned.
A heartfelt, lyrical story about grief, purpose, and becoming who we were meant to be.
A sweet board book about outgrowing the places that once felt safe and finding the courage to step into what comes next.
For children and their adults
The most meaningful stories grow with us.
What begins as wonder in childhood often returns later carrying entirely new meaning. These books are created to be revisited across seasons of life, revealing new layers as the reader changes and grows.
Where stories continue to unfold
Some stories are content living in our imaginations. Others ask to be explored even further through atmosphere, movement, silence, and sound.
Through film and animation, Encourage Thought deepens our experience of rich stories by bringing them to life on the big screen.
To Be A Christmas Tree is evolving from beloved children’s book into a moving short film. This adaptation expands the emotional world of the story through richly textured visual storytelling designed to resonate across generations.
With warmth, restraint, and emotional honesty, the film will journey through grief, beauty, longing, and purpose, inviting both children and adults into a deeply human experience.
Ways to collaborate
Through creative consulting, Encourage Thought opens space for you to cut through the noise, find what matters, and gently shift what’s in the way so your work can bloom.
For thoughtful artists, storytellers, and creatives seeking deeper clarity, momentum, and connection to the work that matters most.
Praise for To Be A Christmas Tree…
“A moving, stunning read for all ages.”
“To Be A Christmas Tree is an emotionally deep story rife with analogs to life’s gifts, challenges and changes. ”
“Not just a children’s book but one that speaks to adults deeply on friendship, joy, love, loss and grief. It’s difficult to read without tears in my eyes.”
“I will never look at a Christmas tree the same!”
“I had to have (my daughter) read the final pages as I was in tears.”
“I totally sobbed like a baby.”
Available now for the holiday season! To Be A Christmas Tree tells the story of a young Christmas tree who overcomes setbacks and loss as he yearns to become one special family's chosen tree at Christmastime. Exquisitely illustrated by Tricia Kleinot. Hardcover children’s book. Published by DeVorss Publications.
*** ORDER HERE***
Stories Matter
Storytelling is a fundamental way humans make sense of the world, connect with each other, and understand our place in it. At their core, stories are a form of communication that transcend mere information-sharing—they evoke emotions, foster empathy, and explore complex ideas. A well-told story can challenge assumptions, provoke thought, and inspire action.
A bridge between the mind and the heart, stories give us space to experience emotions in a safe context. Where our hearts are touched, a deep bond is created, allowing us to relate to and care for each other.
Encourage Thought's mission is to uplift and connect people through story. Creating rich, holistic, quality content is what we do. Honesty, integrity, and authenticity are the principles that guide our work.
Accolades & Press
Honored to have won the 2025 Silver COVR Award!
“To Be A Christmas Tree,” #1 Bestselling Children’s Book 2024
Learn more about my story in this interview about Creatives.
Thank you for voting me best author of Hunterdon County!
Find me on Instagram @encouragethought
