Dear Friends,
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
A few years ago, God placed an idea in my mind to create a children’s book, based on the lyrics from my song, Be the Best. I was so nervous about asking for permission from producer and songwriter, Chris Byrd, to move forward with this idea. I finally mustered up the nerve to contact him. He was ecstatic and did not hesitate to provide permission!
About two years ago now, Pastor Philip and Lady Deborah Shealey prayed with my husband and I that I would find an illustrator to bring my vision to life.
On October 16th ( my birthday) of 2017, Danielle Bilen of Illinois accepted my request.
As we began to get acquainted to discuss details of the book, I found out Danielle actually grew up in the small town of Monroe, Michigan. My hometown!! We apparently went to the same school, around the same time, but did not know one another. What are the odds?
We scheduled a photo shoot for April of 2018.
I created each scene for the book with live subjects. Danielle photographed each scene. From the photos, Danielle worked her magic to turn each scene into animation for the book.
The book, Be the Best, is the unveiling of what was created.
Details for the official release event and book signing are as follows:
Monroe Full Gospel Activities Center
5337 E. Albain Road
Saturday, January 26, 2019
2 p.m.
I hope you enjoy these sneak peek photos from the day of the photo shoot! Can’t wait? Be the Best is now available for pre-sale through major internet retailers.
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/be-the-best-myrna-allen-austin/1130000771?ean=9781543950960
Making New Friends 
Coaching the Track Team 
Danielle and Future Pediatric Oncologist Lailah 
Danielle and I On The Grounds of Our Alma Mater 
Danielle in Action 
Discussing Hair and Makeup With Michelle 
Gratitude 
My Friend Janine Visiting My High School 
Track Team II
Congratulations, Myrna- I am so very proud of you! Wishing you much success with this & future adventures!-Linda Stierman