Local therapist writes first book and holds a book signing at DCPL on Saturday

Before Jennifer Francis-Gehring’s mother died, she asked Francis-Gehring to write a book about her work as a therapist with victims of sexual assault and abuse. That’s exactly what she did, and on Saturday she’s hosting a book signing.

“She wanted me to write a children’s book because she always loved my stories from her childhood and believed in me,” Francis-Gehring said. “Mom always said I had a wonderful gift from God – the ability to make connections and tell stories.”

Francis-Gehring wrote Bixlbee Pugglsree Learns to Talk About and Feel Her Feelings – the first book in a four-part series – based on her work as a therapist with children and adults. She said one of the most important parts of her work as a therapist is teaching people to feel their feelings and physical sensations that show up in their bodies.

“It’s hard to embrace uncomfortable feelings and sensations, but it’s necessary,” she said. “If we have the right tools and a trusted person to provide us with safety and connection, we can be just like Bixlbee and learn that doing difficult things isn’t too scary.”

When she sat down to create the characters and town of Wily Willows, Francis-Gehring wanted something different and unique. After she finished her story, she asked her childhood friend and writer Kristina Goetz to edit the book. She then found illustrator Elizabeth Konetz, who brought her book to life.

“She brought Bixlbee and Wily Willows to life in a way I never imagined,” said Francis-Gehring. “I chose the theme of cute monsters because they are versatile. When I created the character Bixlbee and her personality, I was really inspired by my own childhood and my love of books, art, games and nature. Children are very curious and curiosity is a symbol of our nervous system being in a comfortable state where it feels safe and connected.”

Francis-Gehring said her dream is to teach the community how to befriend their nervous system and be filled with kindness, compassion and grace.

The book can be purchased through Bixlbee Pugglsree’s website as well as at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Target and Allstora.