How a Small Idea Became a Book with Purpose!

By Julie Flynn

This project didn’t begin with a title or a clear plan.

A long time ago, I started writing a short book about tooth brushing for children. It featured a friendly superhero wearing a cape, traveling around, and showing kids how to brush their teeth. The story was playful but only a few pages long, and like many creative projects, it was put aside as other ideas took over.

Everything changed after a chance meeting on a trail.

Through a mutual friend, I met Mandy McGill, and while running together, we talked about life, the world, and the oral health work she does in Africa. I mentioned the unfinished tooth-brushing book I once started, and something clicked.

It felt like the right moment to return to the idea, but in a new way. Instead of a superhero story, the focus shifted back to the basics: brushing teeth, simple routines, and clear steps young children could easily understand.

With support and guidance from dental hygienists, who shared current best practices, the book slowly came together. Their input helped ensure the information was accurate, age-appropriate, and practical, while still maintaining its fun and engaging nature.

That’s when Smile School came to life.

I began by sketching illustrations by hand, then moved into digital design using an online platform to build the illustrations and layout the book.

Writing Smile School specifically for children in Kenya was both humbling and meaningful. It shaped every decision, keeping the language simple, the visuals clear.

Smile School will be shared with schools and libraries in Kenya and our local community. What began as a half-finished idea has grown into a collaborative project rooted in connection, learning, and purpose.