The Welcome Speech

The Welcome Speech is a fantasy story about a 15 year old fairy who has been chosen to give the Welcome Speech at the One-Thousandth Annual Convention of the Order of the Crystal Fairies, a high honor for a fairy so young. Lilibet faces many obstacles on her journey to the magnificent Crystal Palace which is two whole flufftares, (a long distance) away.
These obstacles are not just physical: she must confront her self doubts and fears. Will she be able to get to the Palace on time? Will she have the courage to speak in front of an audience of 100 fairies, including family and friends without making a total fool of herself?
Lilibet's journey to the Crystal Palace is one of wonder, discovery, and fantabulous encounters, such as dancing in a fizzy swamp with silly emerald bugs or an otherworldly mesmerizing performance by the rainbow birds. But along the way, at the Tunnel of Dark and Light, her worries literally hold her back from completing a critical part of her quest. With the help of a new friend, will Lilibet realize she can overcome her fears by summoning the confidence, courage and trust inside her?
Readers, ages 8 through 12 will discover a new magical realm of singing mice, delicious berries that make your eyes twinkle like stars when you eat them, giggling dancing green bugs in a fizzy marsh, a magical bird symphony and other wonders.
Important themes that readers will explore include: overcoming fears, enjoying the journey even if it takes a little more time than simply getting to your destination, trusting yourself and your loved ones, and finding joy in your connection to nature and to everyone.
The lessons Lilibet learns will help children on their own journeys through life.

Resa Thompson Harrison is a retired Educational Diagnostician and Teacher. She lives in Aubrey, Texas, with her husband and dog, Arvee. Having worked in public schools for 29 years, primarily at the Elementary School level, she also enjoys writing stories and poems for children. Her story, "A Gerbil's Job," was published in "hopscotch for Girls" in 2002; and her poem, Itchy, Itchy, Scratch can be seen in Humpty Dumpty's Magazine, June, 1998. When not enjoying walks in nature on their six acres, she loves traveling all across America, visiting State and National Parks and camping in her Motorhome with her husband and pooch.