In 2019, Bashirah and the Amazing Bean Pie reached an exciting milestone when it was adapted for the stage and produced by the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia. Seeing this story come to life beyond the page was a deeply meaningful moment in my journey as an author.

This production represented more than a performance. It was a celebration of storytelling, culture, imagination, and the power of children seeing joyful, faith-centered stories reflected in public spaces. To witness young audiences engage with Bashirah’s world in a live theatrical setting was both affirming and inspiring.

As a children’s author, I care deeply about creating stories that are warm, layered, and rooted in community. The stage adaptation of Bashirah and the Amazing Bean Pie is a beautiful example of what can happen when stories created with love are given room to grow.

I believe stories can travel far — from bookshelves to classrooms, from family read-alouds to stages, and one day, God willing, to screen adaptations and larger creative collaborations.