Author Malika Oakley Teaches Kids to Face Fears with her book “Something in the Basement”

In a world brimming with mysteries and the unexplained, there lies a captivating tale that invites readers into the depths of imagination and courage. “Something in the Basement: Fun and Frights in the Basement Below” by Malika Oakley is not just a story; it’s a journey into the heart of overcoming fears and the importance of confronting the unknown. This article delves into Oakley’s masterpiece, unraveling the layers of its narrative and the profound lessons it holds for young readers worldwide.

The Essence of Courage

At the core of Oakley’s narrative is Cecilia, a character whose initial timidity mirrors the inherent fears we all hold within us. The setting—a new home with its ominous, lurking basement—becomes the stage for a story that transcends the usual spooky tale. Oakley cleverly uses the basement as a metaphor for the fears and assumptions that often govern our actions. As Cecilia confronts the call of the unknown, readers are taken on a suspenseful ride that culminates in an empowering realization: the monsters we fear often exist only in our imaginations.

The beauty of “Something in the Basement” lies in its ability to weave fear with curiosity, leading to empowerment. This narrative encourages young readers to face their own basements, both literal and metaphorical. It teaches them that illumination—both in understanding and in courage—can dispel the darkest of shadows.

A Worldwide Lesson

“Something in the Basement” will be available for anyone ready to dive into Cecilia’s journey. Mark your calendars for its release on May 1, 2024. Additionally, the first 50 customers can snag the ebook for free on Amazon.com on May 1 and 2, 2024, and for just $1.99 on all platforms until May 8, 2024. Don’t miss out on your chance to grab a copy.

It will be available globally through major retailers like Amazon, Kobo, Barnes and Noble, and as an audiobook on Audible, “Something in the Basement” will be within arm’s reach of anyone eager to join Cecilia on her quest. This accessibility ensures that children from different corners of the globe can embark on this adventure from the safety of their homes, learning and growing with Cecilia as they turn each page.

The Inspiration Behind the Pages

The genesis of “Something in the Basement” is as compelling as the story itself. Malika Oakley, drawing from her own experiences and the fears witnessed in her son, crafts a narrative that is deeply personal yet universally relatable. This story, inspired by the daunting task of exploring a new home’s basement, serves as a reminder of the transformative power of facing our fears head-on. Oakley’s personal journey from apprehension to discovery infuses the tale with authenticity and emotional depth, making it not just a story but a shared experience.

Her aspiration to instill courage in young readers is evident in every page turn. Oakley’s narrative is more than a story; it’s a toolkit for empowering the next generation to explore the unknown with confidence and curiosity.

Embark on the Journey

“Something in the Basement” is not just a story for kids; it’s a helpful light for young people learning about fear and things they don’t understand. Through the captivating tale of Cecilia and her venture into the basement below, Malika Oakley invites readers to confront their own shadows with a newfound courage.

As the story unfolds, it’s clear that this book is a must-read for children and adults alike. It’s a reminder that the monsters under our beds, or the noises from the basement, often hold less power over us than we think. By facing our fears, we can uncover the truth behind the shadows, transforming our perceptions and empowering ourselves in the process.

In a world where the unknown often breeds fear, “Something in the Basement” serves as a friendly guide back to the light. So, why wait? Embark on this journey with Cecilia, unlock the secrets hidden in the shadows, and discover the empowering truth that lies in facing fears head-on. Get your copy today, available worldwide, and join the legion of readers who’ve found courage in the pages of Malika Oakley’s enchanting tale.

We had the pleasure of interviewing the author. Here are excerpts from the interview:

Please tell us about your book ‘Something in the Basement: Fun and Frights in the Basement Below’.

My book is about a little girl who moved into her new house, but she thinks that there is something scary living in it with her. 

Please tell us about your journey.

When I was eight years old, I moved into a new house, and I was scared of being alone in it. I thought every sound in the house was a ghost waiting to get me when I was alone. When my son was Seven, we moved into a new house, and he was scared as well. I created this story, and I would tell him this story every night. When I decided to write this book, my son asked me not to use his name and instead use his little sister’s name because she is a baby and he is not.

What are the strategies that helped you become successful in your journey?

I have a million stories that I would love to write. When I turned 39, I decided it was time for to sit down and start writing them down. The best thing I told myself was just to write. For years, I struggled to finish my first draft of anything. I enrolled in many writing courses only to be discouraged by the need to structure everything. This caused me to give up or become bored with the process. So, I decided that I would write and worry about structure later. In doing that, I have been able to complete a second picture book and draft of my first Young Adult novel. I did most of my writing during the pandemic lockdown. 

Any message for our readers

The message of the book is really about making assumptions. How many times have we made judgments about people, places, or things because we heard something? How many times have you assumed that something was far worse than it really was, or have you realized that a negative assumption you had turned out to be untrue? When things scare us, we should confront them. Most of the time, it turns out to be nothing at all.

 

Thank you so much, Malika, for giving us your precious time! We wish you all the best for your journey ahead!