Children’s book author Sharon Linen-Fordham wants her young readers to sense the sincerity of her heart when they read her stories. Her driving force for her writing is to guide and protect children through her words by empowering and inspiring them. Her stories in her new picture book collection, AddyBee 123, tackles both difficult discussions and tales of kindness and inspiration. Though her books’ characters emerged largely from the adored children in her life – her grandchildren and niece – Sharon’s stories are inspired by experiences in her own childhood or those of loved ones. Whether it’s bullying, body safety, education, or inspiration, Sharon hopes her young readers come away from her books with a greater sense of self-esteem, confidence, and well-being. When she isn’t writing poignant picture books for children, Sharon loves to work out, perform her job as a machinist, spend time with family – her inspiration and strength to keep striving to make a positive difference in the world – and enjoy the beautiful and historic Charleston, South Carolina, where she calls home