Spark Spotlight Writer Author Brenna Kean
In February 2022, Author Brenna Kean published her book Baby Goat Rising. In the book, Brenna talks about her own experiences being diagnosed at age nine with Bipolar Disorder. She also talks of her addictions and struggles, the effects they had on her, and how she overcame them. These included body dysmorphia, homelessness, abuse (mental, physical, emotional), depression and anxiety disorders.
All the while, she says her bouncy little alter ego, “Baby Goat,” has been cheering her on and reminding her that no matter how hard things get, positivity is a must. She has received many messages and emails from women telling her their stories and thanking her for giving them the courage to open up and talk. “Being able to tell a story that can empower another is the most satisfying feeling,” Brenna says, adding that it was also her goal with the book to remind readers never to judge someone based on their appearance. “You never know what someone has been through and it’s important to be kind, always.”
1. How did you become interested in writing?
I had wanted to write for as long as I can remember! When I was a little girl, preschool-aged, I would “make” my own books, sewing the pages together, then creating covers out of cardboard from cereal boxes that I would then cover with wrapping paper (making them ‘pretty’). I would then write and illustrate stories for these little books I made and give them as gifts to my parents and grandparents. I was meticulous and a perfectionist even at such a young age, and they turned out pretty cool!
Then, maybe in fourth or fifth grade, I was told that I should write about my adventures, as I had lived a life that most cannot comprehend growing up on the Bering Sea Coast of Alaska. Of course, I would later learn this would be called an autobiography.
2. What initially drew you to writing?
I was never aware of my ability to tell stories that would captivate people, but it is what I enjoy. Writing, no matter what age the intended audience, is a way of universal communication and understanding. Think of how an avid storyteller will often use their hand gestures to make their points —- the same can be done with words on paper.
3. Where does your inspiration come from?
I have lived an interesting life, and I’ve had experiences that most cannot even comprehend. Being able to tell of my ‘adventures’ in life is a way of educating others on a personal and meaningful level. Writing is a way of forming a connection or bond with your audience, and for someone like myself who considers themselves shy and introverted, it is a way of being able to overcome that.
4. What is most important to you in your writing?
I write because I care. As I’ve gotten older, writing has become an outlet, a way to explain myself so that others who may be in the same position can relate. Writing is a bonding experience: both for me with myself and my emotions, and with the reader.
5. What is the most rewarding part of being a writer?
Being able to give voice to others that may not feel they have the right to have one is incredibly rewarding. Finding that voice brings about a level of self-confidence that when nurtured, allows a person to blossom as an individual. If I can connect with even a handful of people to realize their own potential and self-worth, then that in itself, is the most rewarding part of writing I could ever ask for.