Written in the Stars *EDITING*

Author's Note

If you decided to read this story, thank you. This author's note is going to be sort of long, so feel free to skim or skip it altogether.

First, let me explain something about the characters. Mia, the main character, is White. Hazel, her best friend, is Black. She's dark skin, so please keep that in mind. Nathan's race, however, is not specified. I did this on purpose. Some might think that's a cop-out but I want readers to imagine Nathan however they want because even though he is his own person, his main purpose is to help Mia through her fears. Therefore I wanted the reader to imagine him as the person they would want helping them conquer their own fears. Nathan only has two descriptions. The first is that he has black hair. You know who has black hair? Black people, White people, Asian people, Hispanic (which I know isn't a race) people, and more. His other description is that he has brown eyes. You know who has brown eyes? Asian people, American's, Italians, Ethiopians, Black people, etc. Every single race, ethnicity, and nationality. So feel free to imagine Nathan how you want, keeping in mind he has black hair and brown eyes.

Second, I want to address the use of the word "fear." Some of the things Mia is scared of aren't legitimate fears. They're just things she's afraid of doing or worried about the consequences, like sneaking out. Some are actual fears, like the aquarium.

I've always wanted to write a novel so this book means a lot to me. I also know it has to be edited, but that's a problem for future me haha. Constructive criticism (not hate) is very welcome and appreciated. That's enough explaining from me. If you've made it this far, thank you. I hope you enjoy this story and perhaps, learn to stand tall.