“How might an illustrative narrative evoke empathy for real-world issue in those who could potentially make a difference?”

The ultimate product of my senior project ended up including writing, illustrating, formatting, and creating a speculative publishing identity for my very own 22,000-word approximately 100-page novella that utilizes reflective fiction.

I wrote this story to shed light on struggles with gender identity and roles-- even going so far to include my own experiences.

The goal of this story and its publishing house are to help individuals understand, sympathize with, or empathize with the experiences of others in a world where we continue to separate ourselves from different communities.

Made By Hand

In addition to writing the story, the final book (and research booklets) were hand-bound and the covers were each handmade to construct a ‘storybook’ feel.

This was by far one of the most frustrating, but also most satisfying parts of the process. At the very least, I loved being able to work physically and produce a tangible product as a reward and sense of accomplishment I could actually hold in my hands at the end.

What’s So Special About the Publishing House?

Once Upon Our Time is a speculative publishing house meant to serve as a hub for members of communities that wish to share their stories with the world.

Whether they wish to spread awareness about their situations or ask for support is up to them, but the publishing house serves as a platform for them and their communities in a world that might otherwise be unkind to them.