This week, students in grades 3-8 gathered in two sessions yesterday to hear from acclaimed author Saadia Faruqi, whose novel "Some of Us Are Brave" explores courage, friendship, and resilience in the face of Hurricane Harvey.
Faruqi spoke with students about what it truly means to be brave. Bravery, she explained, is not the absence of fear but the willingness to move forward despite it. Everyone is afraid of something, even adults. The key, she said, is to name your fear, take small steps, focus on your “why,” work as a team, seek out role models, and never give up.
Drawing from her own writing journey, Faruqi also shared insights into the creative process. Writing a book requires persistence, multiple drafts, and the ability to accept and use feedback thoughtfully. No author produces a perfect first draft, she reminded students. Growth comes from revising, listening, and trying again.
Through stories from her life and work, Faruqi encouraged Wellington students to see bravery as a daily practice. Whether facing a storm, navigating friendships, or revising a piece of writing, courage begins with acknowledging fear and choosing to take the next step anyway.