Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeri Weems
Hi Jeri, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
About ten years ago, I volunteered at a farm sanctuary in Michigan. I quickly discovered these farmed animals—who’d previously been abused, abandoned, or neglected—were incredibly bright creatures capable of experiencing complex emotions. I found not many people outside the field of animal advocacy knew about farm sanctuaries. I decided to write a fiction book that highlighted the emotional lives of animals and also spotlighted the compassionate work done by Farm Sanctuaries. I recently published the first book in a series, Save Haven – Where Hope Lives, under my pen name Elizabeth Stiles. Currently, I reside in the Knoxville area and have been reaching out to nearby sanctuaries in hopes of finding ways to help spread the word.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Writing the book: For me, the story came easy. It was crafting it into something worth publishing that was difficult. Which is why it took me ten years to get to this point. Volunteering at the farm sanctuary, interacting with these resilient creatures, and working alongside some of the most compassionate people I’ve ever met, kept my passion alive.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a retired teacher, mother of hounds, lover of all creatures great and small. But most recently, I am an author. As many writers will say, calling yourself an author is difficult. You constantly struggle with whether you’re good enough, smart enough, resilient enough to handle the challenges, face the naysayers and the critics. At times you have to overcome your own self-doubt and kick your inner editor to the curb. You have to find people who know how to provide constructive criticism with a dose of love and empathy. I am proud to say I am surrounded by beautiful people.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
If you love animals, reach out to your local animal shelters and farm sanctuaries. They are always in need of volunteers. If you can’t volunteer, donate. These animals deserve our love and compassion.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Elizabeth-Stiles.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethstilesauthor
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567819448500
