When this image and the little tease of a challenge to ponder a back story landed in front of my face, something clicked. Ideas started bubbling up. It was the most wonderful feeling of inspiration. Writing those 17 pages of character intro and scene went smoothly for such a rusty skill. And it was like there was no other way I could react. That pleading, almost forlorn look about her, the swirling of a phantom being...I went down the rabbit hole of "why?" until something whispered out of the void.

Why does she look sad and weary? 
Why is the spirit figure leaning and hunching to put his face in front of hers
Why are little green eyes watching from the dark outside?
Why is the tent red and white? Does it matter?
Why am I caught off guard by how young she looks?
Why does it look like the spirit came out of crystal?
Why...

I named her then and I stuck with that choice. The spirit didn't get one until much later.

When I finished the writing, I reached out to her agent, and we came to an agreement for the licensing of the image. I know there are a number of illustrators/designers who would have studied the manuscript and done something good. But deep down, I had to have this image. It was personal. I hope that some of what captivated me does the same to others who are looking for something new to read.

Ms. Larson is doing very well for herself. I am happy for her success. Selfishly, I am worried that means I won't be able to get something made in the future. Maybe if she likes the book enough ;)