Where in the World is Peace?

Valerie Cheng

What inspired you to write this book?

My children were my inspiration. Just before the pandemic started, I began having anxiety attacks, and I turned to my meditation practice to help alleviate my anxiety. During lockdown, while my husband Jeff and I tried to make it fun for the kids to stay at home, I noticed them start to have big feelings they couldn’t explain, despite the distractions. Sometimes, little things would trigger a massive meltdown. So I created this book to help my kids put a picture to these feelings, and empower them to use simple tools to find their peace. I realised we are not alone, and many of us are experiencing this.

What are you hoping readers take away from your book?

We may not always recognise our kids as having anxiety or feeling stressed. It may manifest in different forms, and small children might not be able to understand and explain what they’re feeling. Hopefully, this book gives us a glimpse of that “big feeling”, and shows children that they have the power to respond to stressful situations.

How did you come up with the characters in the book?

The character in my first book is based on my daughter Sophia; I wanted a hero who could empower little girls. My second book will be based on my sons, Gavin and Xander. I tried to make the setting simple and relatable to kids, so I chose a beach, because who doesn’t like the beach?!

What’s your day job?

I work with Career Agility International, a career coaching consultancy firm, focusing on career-related content to help executives find equilibrium in their careers. In line with my philosophy of making the world a better place, I’ve also launched Mini-Monsters Wellness Kits, which are essential oils kits specifically made for children.

Available at Amazon. Proceeds of sales go to two causes in the children’s mental health and wellness sphere, the International Justice Mission and the International Association of Human Values. Find out more at Instagram @booksbyvalcheng.