fran-litch

As the School Year Began

Sat, 24 Oct 2026 20:08:53 GMT

As the new school year began, students entered their classrooms carrying invisible plates. On those plates are the burdens they bring with them-grief, family difficulties, financial insecurity,

loneliness, conflict, lack of sleep, and many other challenges. The classroom teacher will most likely be the first person to encounter the effects of these challenges.

A student who did not get enough sleep may doze off during class and receive a disciplinary referral. Another student, upset after an argument with her best friend, may talk about it during a lesson and be written up for failing to stay on task. The behavior is visible; the burden behind it often is not.

Now imagine what can happen when a student carrying one of these already-loaded plates is also being bullied.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, approximately 19%-nearly one in five-of students ages 12 to 18 reported being bullied during the 2021-22 school year. Among those students, only about 44% said that an adult at school had been notified. When a bully targets an already-burdened student, what might happen? The student may experience annoyance, fear, anger, isolation, anxiety, or depression. In some cases, the studentmay retaliate.

Schools are required to have policies and procedures for addressing bullying, and those safeguards are essential. But must we wait until a crisis occurs before we begin addressing the problem?

Some may believe that teachers should not be expected to discuss these issues in the classroom. After all, they already have a curriculum to teach, and the school may have a kindness program in place. But will the students who most need to examine their behavior voluntarily participate in

such a program?

That is why I propose using fiction in English language arts classrooms to begin these conversations. English language arts is not an elective, so every student can be exposed to the material. Fiction creates a safe distance from real-life circumstances, allowing students to explore difficult subjects without identifying or singling out a particular student.

Through a shared story, students who are being bullied can gain the confidence and vocabulary to express what they are experiencing. Students who witness bullying can learn constructive ways to intervene. Those engaging in bullying behavior can see its consequences and develop empathy without being publicly accused or shamed. Practical suggestions can be woven naturally into the

narrative and reinforced through classroom discussion and activities.

I wrote Weeper not only to entertain voung readers but also to educate them, give them a voice, and give them hope. Through its story, the book opens the door to honest conversations about

bullying, grief, empathy, kindness, friendship, courage, and forgiveness.

Author’s Note

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 14:45:01 GMT

When creating these stories, I wanted the ants to feel both imaginative and authentic.

My research in **myrmecology—the study of ants—**revealed that ants come in several common colors, including black, brown, red, and yellow. There are no white ants. What people sometimes call “white ants” are actually termites.

To make the characters inclusive for all readers, I gave the ants neutral gray bodies and blue eyes so that anyone can imagine themselves in the story.

At the same time, the characters are dressed in the patriotic colors of the American flag. Their clothing features variations of red, white, and blue with stars and stripes, giving them a strong cultural identity. When you see them dressed this way, there is no doubt that they are American ants.

I also made sure the word “ant” appears in each character’s name, from Queen Antoinette and Grandma Antique to the family dog, Vigilant.

Although real ants have six legs, I removed two of their legs and their posterior so they could comfortably wear human clothing. However, I purposely did not give them noses, since ants smell with their antennae. In this way, I tried to preserve some of their natural characteristics.

The stories were intentionally written using rhyme, rhythm, and repetition —three literary devices that help readers anticipate upcoming words. These small successes encourage children to keep reading and strengthen their developing skills.

Finally, each story answers a character’s question or shares an important life lesson. In most cases, the wisdom comes from the Queen.

I hope these little ants bring both smiles and wisdom to young readers—and that you will visit them again in their next adventure.

Every story begins with a small spark.

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 14:42:31 GMT

A story about healing, honesty, and the quiet strength that carries us forward.

For Weeper, that spark came from my fascination with how people heal — how we find light again after loss, and how even the quietest moments can hold deep emotion.

I wanted to write a story that felt real: not perfect or polished, but honest. Weeper follows Mike, a twelve-year-old boy learning to cope with grief, friendship, and forgiveness. His journey reminded me of the strength I’ve seen in both children and adults — the way they hold onto hope, even when life feels heavy.

Some of the moments in Weeper were inspired by real experiences — memories of family, nature, and the small acts of kindness that lift us up when we least expect it. Writing the book

started thirteen years ago but I set it aside. I wasn’t happy with the product. Thirteen years later, I felt the urge to see the book to completion. Now, I’m glad I did.

More than anything, I hope Weeper encourages readers to talk about their feelings, to share their stories, and to see that sadness and hope can exist side by side.

Now I’d love to hear from you:

What part of Weeper spoke to you most deeply?

Did Mike’s story remind you of something from your own life?

Let’s talk about it.

Warmly,

Fran Litch

Have You Ever Been Bullied?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 23:53:23 GMT

A place for honest conversation, shared stories, and the heart behind the pages.

Welcome, readers and friends!

I’m so glad you’ve stopped by. This space is where we can share thoughts, questions, and reflections about my books, starting with my debut novel, Weeper.

Weeper is a story close to my heart. It’s about healing, courage, and finding hope again after loss. Many readers have told me the book made them smile, tear up, and remember their own stories of love and letting go. That’s exactly what I hope this space will be — a place for real feelings and thoughtful conversation.

Whether you’re a middle-grade reader, a teacher, a parent, or just someone who loves stories that touch the heart, I’d love to hear from you.

• What did Weeper make you think about?

• Did a certain scene or character stay with you?

• Have you ever had a “Weeper moment” of your own — one that helped you grow or see the world differently?

Let’s talk about it.

Thank you for reading and for joining me on this journey as I share Weeper — and future stories — with you.

Warmly,

Fran Litch