Kay’s Odyssey

Author: Kay’s Corner

  • 📚 What Do I Have Authority On?

    📚 What Do I Have Authority On?

    When I first asked myself this question, I froze. After all, authority is a big word. It carries weight. It implies mastery, expertise, or accolades that make you the “go-to” in your field.

    If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably wondered the same thing. Maybe you’ve spent nights staring at your book sales dashboard, your cursor blinking on a blank page, or your confidence eroding with every unread blog post, unliked tweet, or lukewarm review.

    So, what do I have authority on?

    For a long time, I thought the answer was “nothing.” But I’ve learned that authority isn’t always about being the world’s best expert — it’s about having the courage to share your lived truth, the generosity to teach what you’ve learned, and the empathy to hold space for others navigating the same storm.

    🎙️ My Real Authority: The Lived Experience of the Struggling Author

    Here’s what I know for certain: I have authority on what it feels like to pour your soul into a book — only to wonder Why is nobody buying my book?

    I have authority on staying up late wrestling with price points, rewriting blurbs that never feel “good enough,” and learning the subtle art of talking about your book without feeling like a used-car salesperson.

    I have authority on the heartbreak of rejection and the strange healing that comes when you realise you can’t tie your self-worth to the numbers on your sales dashboard.

    Most importantly, I have authority on what does work — because I stayed in the ring. I tested what resonates with readers, what makes them trust your words enough to exchange their money (and time) for your story.

    ✨ Where Authority Meets Empathy

    My authority isn’t about telling you how to become a millionaire overnight. It’s about helping you see that your book is more than a product — it’s an energy exchange. Readers buy stories that meet them where they are. They buy honesty, vulnerability, and transformation.

    This is exactly what I explore in my book, Why Is Nobody Buying My Book? — a practical and deeply personal look at how money mindset, storytelling, and emotional resonance shape your success as an author.

    I share lessons from my first book, Diary of Clichés, the moments when I almost gave up, and the gentle breakthroughs that showed me how marketing can be more like healing than hustling.

    🌱 What I Want You to Know

    If you’ve ever felt unqualified, unworthy, or unseen, remember this: authority doesn’t come from a perfect publishing track record or bestseller badges. It comes from your willingness to share your real, unpolished journey so that someone else feels less alone.

    So what do I have authority on?
    I have authority on the messy, honest, and healing reality of being an author who wants to matter — and the practical tools to help you do it too.

    If you’re ready to claim your own story and finally answer that haunting question — Why is nobody buying my book? — I’d love to share what I’ve learned with you.

    After all, your words deserve to be read. And you deserve to trust that your voice matters — because it does.

    Diary Of Cliches
    Why Is Nobody Buying My Book

    📖 Grab your copy of Why Is Nobody Buying My Book? and join me in rewriting how we sell, connect, and heal through the power of storytelling.

  • What Truly Gets Better with Age?

    What Truly Gets Better with Age?

    A Personal Reflection Inspired by “Diary of Clichés”

    There’s a reason people often say wine gets better with age — not just because it matures, but because it evolves. It deepens. It softens. It becomes more complex, layered, and unapologetically bold.

    So do we.

    In a world obsessed with youth, instant gratification, and rapid reinvention, it’s easy to forget the beauty in becoming. Yet, as time moves forward, we begin to understand that some things don’t peak early — they bloom late. And often, they bloom in ways we never saw coming.

    With age, something remarkable happens: we stop performing.

    We start living.

    We begin to let go of who the world told us to be — and become who we were always meant to be. The insecurities that once shaped our choices lose their power. The urge to please everyone quiets down. The race to meet arbitrary milestones becomes less urgent.

    Instead, we find ourselves drawn inward.

    We rediscover passions we had shelved. We forgive ourselves for not knowing better. We learn to say “no” without guilt, and “yes” without fear. We stop chasing perfect and start chasing real.

    And perhaps most beautifully, we come to realize that the advice we once dismissed as cliché — “follow your heart,” “be true to yourself,” “everything happens for a reason” — wasn’t meaningless after all. It was timeless.

    This is precisely what Diary of Clichés explores — the idea that every eye-roll-worthy quote we mocked in our twenties comes back to teach us something vital in our thirties, forties, and beyond. The book isn’t just a journal or a memoir. It’s an invitation to reflect, to write, and to reclaim your story. It’s a space where you can laugh at your past self while applauding your growth.

    Because aging isn’t about losing something. It’s about gaining clarity.

    It’s about rewriting your life on your terms.

    It’s about realizing that the most profound truths often hide behind the simplest words.

    So what truly gets better with age?

    You.

    Your strength.
    Your self-trust.
    Your story.

    And sometimes, all it takes to witness your evolution is an open heart — and a blank page.

    Diary Of Cliches

    If you’re ready to start your own journey inward, with honesty, humor, and a little help from the clichés you once ignored, pick up your copy of Diary of Clichés today.
    ✨ Part memoir. Part journal. All you.

  • A Future Rooted in Pawprints and Prayer

    A Future Rooted in Pawprints and Prayer

    What am I most excited about for the future?

    To be honest, it’s not flying cars or digital utopias. It’s something quieter, softer. Something I’ve come to understand through muddy paws, crate rides across continents, and a deepening reverence for the Earth beneath my feet.

    I’m excited about a future where we remember. Where we return to the things that matter—not because we scrolled into awareness, but because we listened. To the animals. To the soil. To the thrum of our own heartbeat when we finally put our phones down.

    A big part of this remembering came through a dog.

    When Sauli entered my life—a rescue pup with more energy than discipline—I thought I was saving her. But the truth is, she saved me. With every chewed-up corner of my home, every escape attempt, every impossible antic, she reminded me that love is messy, wild, and often inconvenient. And worth every moment.

    It’s hard to write about her without smiling. Because Sauli is not just a dog. She’s a metaphor, a muse, a four-legged embodiment of second chances. Her stories—some hilarious, some humbling—became a way for me to process this unpredictable world. To offer joy. To reconnect with something primal and playful. That’s how The Adventures of Sauli the Rescue Pup began. And with each book, I’m reminded: even chaos has a heart.

    But my excitement for the future doesn’t end with Sauli.

    It expands, like song, into the landscape of the Earth itself. There’s something ancient in the way wind moves through trees or the way children dance barefoot in the dirt. That’s the spirit behind A Song and Dance for Mother Earth. It’s a call to reawaken our relationship with the natural world—not through fear or guilt, but through love. Through celebration. Through the understanding that this planet doesn’t need saving as much as it needs partnership.

    The future I see isn’t sterile or sleek. It’s not something to “optimize.” It’s something to co-create.

    It’s barefoot walks and messy living rooms. It’s laughter. Barking. Drumming. A child pressing their ear to the ground just to hear what the Earth has to say.

    And if I can contribute to that future, even in a small way—by telling stories that soften hearts or spark giggles—then I’ll consider my path well-lit.

    Because maybe that’s what I’m really excited about:
    A future that feels like home.
    One pawprint, one page, one prayer at a time.

  • How Do You Express Gratitude?

    How Do You Express Gratitude?

    If you’d asked me years ago, I might have said gratitude was a polite “thank you” at the right time. But the truth is, gratitude has become a whole language I’ve learned to live by — a rhythm that guides my stories, my steps, and my service to this beautiful world.

    When I first wrote Adventures of Sauli the rescue pup stories, they were my way of saying thank you to the child within me — the one who needed wonder, courage, and a reminder that every tiny action matters. Those pages became little offerings of hope, like wildflowers left on a trail for the next traveler.

    Now, with my new book series in collaboration with the beautiful Sora Mei, A Song and Dance For Mother Earth, my gratitude has grown roots and branches. I express it by listening to the land, telling stories that remind us we belong to something bigger — that we are guests here, and caretakers too. Every character, every line, every lesson is my way of bowing to the Earth and to the generations who will come after us.

    For me, gratitude is not a checklist — it’s an adventure in itself. It’s a story I keep rewriting through my books, my choices, and the tiny, everyday moments: whispering thanks to the wind, leaving a patch of garden wild, passing on a tale that might light up someone’s day.

    So, how do I express gratitude? By never keeping it inside. By wrapping it in words, songs, and dances that remind us all we’re part of this living, breathing story — and that the greatest thank you is to love it fiercely, together.

  • Hello From Kay’s Creative Corner – The Podcast Parts 1 & 2

    Hello From Kay’s Creative Corner – The Podcast Parts 1 & 2

    Kay’s Works

    Diary Of Cliches
    Adventures Of Sauli The Rescue Pup
    A Song And Dance For Mother Earth

    Welcome to this episode of “Kay’s Creative Corner”.

    Join us as we delve into the imaginative world of the celebrated author Kay and explore one of her captivating works.

    In this episode, we uncover the evocative themes and emotional depth that define her writing. Discover the inspirations that ignited this project and hear intriguing stories that influenced its development. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just starting to explore her work, this episode promises to provide an insightful glimpse into Kay’s creative process and the magic behind her storytelling. Don’t miss this enriching exploration of her literary craftsmanship! Be sure to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below! Happy listening!

    Here’s Part 2 of the podcast discussing Kay’s collaboration with Author Sora Mei to create a new Children’s Book Series – A Song And Dance For Mother Earth.

    In this episode, we delve deeper into Kay’s collaboration with Sora Mei as they create the enchanting trilogy, “A Song and Dance for Mother Earth.”

    Join us as we uncover the beauty and magic of nature and discuss the vital message behind protecting our planet. This conversation blends powerful storytelling with a strong environmental consciousness. We’ll explore the themes in each installment of this lyrical masterpiece, revealing the secrets of our Earth and inspiring listeners to take action for its preservation.

    Tune in as we celebrate the rhythm of nature through unforgettable stories, highlighting the harmony between humanity and the environment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who holds the wonders of our world close to their heart.

    Don’t miss out on this unique experience where every song and dance tells an extraordinary tale! Make sure to subscribe and join us in celebrating the magic of “A Song and Dance for Mother Earth.” Together, we can make a difference!

    We’d love to hear your thoughts!

    What inspires you most about nature? Like, share, and comment below with your reflections!

  • Why Is Nobody Buying My Book? – The Podcast

    Why Is Nobody Buying My Book? – The Podcast

    Welcome to the podcast – Why is Nobody Buying My Book?

    This book is written by Kay Jay, describing her journey through publication and the ups and downs she faced through her first book Diary Of Cliches.

    Why Is Nobody Buying My Book? – The Podcast

    Are you an author pouring your heart into your craft, only to be met with silence? You’ve written, edited, and published, but where are the readers? If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why isn’t my book selling?” you’re not alone—and this book holds the answers.

    Why Is Nobody Buying My Book?  It isn’t just a guide; it’s a roadmap for indie authors navigating the competitive and often overwhelming self-publishing world. Whether you’re struggling with pricing, marketing, or connecting emotionally with readers, this book equips you with the tools and strategies to stand out and succeed.

    What You’ll Learn:

    The Emotional Economy of Money: Why readers hesitate to buy your book—and how to overcome it, transform your mindset about pricing, rejection, and value perception. Exercises to help you price your book with confidence and connect authentically with buyers.

    NLP—The Science of Resonating with Readers: Discover how language influences emotions and decisions. Learn to craft book titles, descriptions, and stories that resonate deeply. Master the art of mirroring your readers’ desires to create instant connections.

    Healing—For You and Your Readers: Writing as Therapy: Learn how storytelling can help you heal while inspiring others. Build a bridge of authenticity and vulnerability with your readers. Exercises and journaling prompts to help you process challenges and deepen your connection with your audience.

    The Synergy of Money, NLP, and Healing: Align your pricing, messaging, and emotional resonance to create a holistic sales strategy. Marketing is referred to as “sharing your gift,” not just selling a product—practical steps for turning your readers into advocates and loyal followers.

    Taking Action and Building Community: You can create an interactive experience for your readers that goes beyond the book—tools for reader engagement, including book clubs, social media, and live Q&A sessions. Build a legacy by creating lasting relationships and growing your community.

    But this book isn’t just a collection of strategies—it’s also my story. When I wrote my first book, Diary of Cliches, I believed I had something meaningful to share. What I didn’t anticipate was the crushing reality of low sales and self-doubt. I spent sleepless nights questioning my pricing, rewriting my book description, and wondering if my voice was ever meant to be heard.

    And then it hit me. Writing isn’t just about the story you tell—it’s about how that story connects with your audience. Through trial error, and countless lessons, I discovered what truly resonates with readers. These lessons not only changed the trajectory of my books but transformed how I viewed my journey as an author.

    Why Does Nobody Buy My Book? Takes you behind the scenes of that journey while giving you actionable insights, practical tools, and creative strategies to navigate the challenges of self-publishing. From shifting your mindset about money to crafting emotionally resonant stories, this book will help you not only sell books but create a lasting impact.

    Who Is This Book For?

    Indie authors looking to improve their book sales.

    Writers seek a deeper connection with their readers.

    Anyone struggling with self-doubt or the fear of rejection in their publishing journey.

    Why This Book Is Different?

    This is a deeply personal and practical toolkit that blends storytelling, psychology, and actionable exercises to help you unlock your full potential as an author. It’s about more than selling books—it’s about sharing your voice, connecting with readers, and finding purpose in the process.

    Are you ready to transform your self-publishing journey?

    Learn More
  • Sauli’s Day Across The Globe – The Podcast

    Sauli’s Day Across The Globe – The Podcast

    Adventures of Sauli The Rescue Pup – Book 1

    Welcome to Sauli’s Day Across The Globe – The Podcast!

    This podcast talks about Author Kay and her journey with her rescue pup Sauli…across the globe!!!

    This book is the first in the series, Adventures of Sauli the Rescue Pup!

    This story began as a swirl of emotions—anxious goodbyes, hopeful hellos, and one little rescue pup who changed everything. I wrote this book for anyone who’s ever had to say goodbye to someone they love… and for every animal that finds their way home.

    From San Francisco to Mumbai, Sauli takes a journey full of heart, chaos, and courage. And now, she’s ready to meet your little ones and wag her way into their hearts.

    Filled with vibrant illustrations and real feelings, this is a book for dog lovers, little adventurers, and anyone who believes in second chances.

    Listen to the podcast for more about the book, available in all formats on Amazon!

    🛒 https://a.co/d/i2F04ki

    If this story touches you, please consider leaving a book review—Sauli and I would be so grateful. Let’s send this little pup flying into the hands of readers everywhere.

    Sauli’s Day Across The Globe – The Podcast
  • How a Mysterious Collaboration Became a Children’s Book Series

    How a Mysterious Collaboration Became a Children’s Book Series

    A Song and Dance for Mother Earth

    If you had told me a year ago that I’d be helping to bring a children’s book series into the world — one written by an author I have never met in person, who prefers to let her words speak in whispers — I might have smiled politely and gone back to my coffee.

    But life, and the Universe, have a way of surprising us.

    It began with a letter.
    A soft, wise letter from someone writing under the name Sora Mei — a storyteller who described herself simply as “one who writes for the Earth and its children.”

    Her words moved me instantly.
    She had read something on my blog about protecting the planet and had been inspired to share her own project: a small collection of timeless tales that would speak gently to little hearts about big things — about fire, water, Earth, and the balance we must honor between them.

    I was captivated.
    And soon, we were writing back and forth — exchanging drafts, reflections, and ideas for how these stories might live in the world.

    The more I read her words, the more I knew: this series needed to be shared. Not just with children, but with the grown-ups who read to them — who, in doing so, might remember their own love for this fragile blue planet.

    And so, quietly, a collaboration was born.

    We called the series:
    A Song and Dance for Mother Earth.

    Because stories, like songs, can stay in your heart long after the final note is played.
    Because we wanted these books to be not lectures, but invitations — to wonder, to respect, to care.

    The Day Fire Disappeared

    The first book in the series — The Day Fire Disappeared — is launching this weekend.

    It was inspired by a real and heartbreaking event: the death of a baby red fox in Britain, frightened to death by the shock of fireworks.

    From that single spark of sorrow grew a gentle fable about a future world where fire disappears because it has been misused. A world where children and animals must learn to live in harmony again — and where the Universe reminds us that every gift we are given must be treated with care.

    The story is written in the language of The Velveteen Rabbit — simple, poetic, and full of quiet wisdom. It is a story to read aloud by soft lamp light, or beneath the branches of a tree, or cuddled together before bedtime.

    And though it is written for children, I believe it carries messages many grown-ups need to hear again.

    A Series of Whispers

    There are more books to come.

    The second — The Day Water Vanished — will explore the preciousness of water, and what happens when we take it for granted.

    The third — The Day the Sun Slept — is a hauntingly beautiful story about what happens when Mother Earth, too weary from misuse, decides not to wake one morning… and the Sun, in solidarity, stays hidden.

    Each of these stories is written by Sora Mei, in her gentle, mysterious voice.
    And I — Kay — have had the joy of helping bring them into the world.

    I will not tell you more about Sora. She prefers to remain behind the curtain, letting her stories shine instead. But I will say this: it has been one of the great joys of this past year to collaborate with someone who writes from such deep love for the Earth.

    A Song for Our Children — and Theirs

    So why am I sharing this today?

    Because I believe we need more stories like these.
    Stories that invite children to become stewards of this planet.
    Stories that remind us that even small actions matter — that planting a tree, turning off a tap, or choosing celebration that does not harm animals is an act of love.

    A Song and Dance for Mother Earth is just a small offering.
    But small offerings, like single drops of water or sparks of light, can grow.

    I hope you’ll join me in welcoming The Day Fire Disappeared into the world this weekend.
    I hope you’ll read it to your children, or gift it to someone you love.
    And I hope, like me, you’ll remember — stories can heal. Stories can awaken.
    And sometimes, they can even change the way we dance upon this Earth.

    With gratitude,
    Kay
    (In collaboration with Sora Mei)

    Follow us on Instagram: @storiesbysoramei

    Learn More
  • New Book Release

    New Book Release

    The Transformative Power of Pet Adoption: Sauli’s Trip To San Francisco

    In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the bond between a pet and its owner can offer solace, understanding, and immeasurable joy. “Sauli’s Trip To San Francisco” captures this sentiment beautifully, narrating the transformative tale of a Belgian Malinois and her new owner as they navigate the complexities of companionship and the adoption experience.

    Embracing Change

    Adopting a pet is not just about bringing a new animal into your home; it’s a commitment to a journey filled with ups and downs. Sauli’s story exemplifies this as she transitions from a life of uncertainty to a loving home. The themes of patience and trust are woven throughout her journey, showcasing the time it takes for relationships to flourish. For many pet owners, this mirrors their own experience as they learn to understand their new companions.

    Building Trust

    One of the most profound aspects of Sauli’s story is the emphasis on the unspoken communication that occurs between a pet and its owner. Animals, especially those coming from challenging backgrounds, may struggle to trust. Sauli’s new owner quickly learns that building this trust requires not just time, but a deep sense of patience and empathy. This highlights the incredible responsibility that comes with pet adoption — to be a source of safety and love for a creature that may have experienced trauma.

    Navigating Companionship

    As the story unfolds, we witness the nuances of their relationship grow amidst life’s chaos. Sauli and her owner face challenges, each learning from the other. This dynamic reflects the reality of many adoptive relationships. It’s a reminder that companionship is not one-sided; it’s a partnership built on mutual understanding and support. The more we invest in these relationships, the greater the rewards—moments of joy, laughter, and unconditional love.

    The Beauty of Unspoken Bonds

    Perhaps the most poignant takeaway from this journey is the beauty found in unspoken bonds. Sauli and her owner communicate beyond words through gestures, expressions, and shared experiences. This silent dialogue enriches their relationship and demonstrates that love can transcend language. It reminds us that the connections we form with our pets can be incredibly profound, often teaching us more about ourselves than we realize.

    The Rewards of Adoption

    “Sauli’s Journey” is not just a tale about a dog; it’s a celebration of the transformative power of adoption. It reflects the struggle, the growth, and the eventual reward of building a relationship based on trust and companionship. For anyone considering pet adoption, this story serves as a beautiful reminder—while the journey may be challenging, the love and companionship that await are truly worth it.

    As we continue to champion the cause of pet adoption, let us remember the importance of patience, empathy, and the unbreakable bonds that can form through these beautiful relationships. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or thinking about adopting for the first time, take a step back and embrace the journey—it just might change your life.

    Patience and Trust: Lessons from Sauli the Belgian Malinois
  • Scraps and Strings

    Scraps and Strings

    Ever so often while taking a walk on Polk Street towards the Pier I used to pass a house with its garage door open.

    I used to sneak a peek into the beautiful garage and the wonderful keepsakes it had. It was probably like any other garage but something about it made it different.

    There used to be someone perched up under a vintage-looking car working on it.

    Never saw the beautiful car come out of the garage or maybe I missed it. I am not much of a car person, they don’t really do so much to me.

    But I always thought about this beauty every time I passed the garage and thought of the person perched up beneath her wheels working on her.

    I think she was a remodeled car, made from a vintage body.

    I visualized the person spending their weekends working on her. Maybe having a few beers, people watching on the sunny side of Polk at the intersection of Polk and Chestnut, in between doing craftwork on their vintage beauty.

    I used to think how much my dad might love a life like that.

    A garage full of keepsakes and all the mechanical instruments his hands want to touch. The feel of metal on his fingertips and drills and nuts and bolts and bits and pieces of iron he’d like to surround himself with!

    I never stopped to talk to the person in the garage. I never asked about the car, or why it never seemed to leave its space. But that small, quiet world they’d carved out for themselves on Polk Street—it stayed with me. Not because of what it was, but because of what it stirred in me. Memories of my dad’s hands, always working, always moving. His love of machines and keepsakes and little bits of iron that others might overlook.

    I always thought about my dad when I walked past that garage.

    Since I moved back in with my parents, my dad has acquired a few curious habits. He wakes up in the wee hours of the morning, when the house is still dark and quiet, and does mysterious things. He moves around the house gathering bits and pieces of discarded material, things out of the trash, little scraps others wouldn’t think twice about. If we disturb him—ask if everything’s okay—he’ll quickly pretend to drink some water, then hurry off to his tinkering, as if we hadn’t noticed anything out of the ordinary.

    But then, slowly, the evidence appears. I’ll find bits of scrap material hidden beneath his bed, styrofoam tucked beneath his pillow like a secret treasure. And then there are the results of his quiet labor, scattered throughout the house in quiet corners. Broken scissors transformed into knives. Random scraps turned into cleaning supplies. Cloth fragments stitched into objects you can’t quite identify until, days or weeks later, he finds some ingenious use for them.

    I can’t help but draw a connection between his midnight creations and that stranger under the car on Polk Street. Both of them are cut from the same cloth—people who see the potential in what others throw away. People who find joy in the act of creating, of transforming, of making something new from what’s been discarded. My dad doesn’t just fix things; he breathes life back into them. A kind of quiet magic, a love that takes shape in broken scissors, cloth scraps, and quiet corners of the house.

    And I suppose, in a way, that stranger in the garage gave me a piece of my dad to carry with me on my walks. A thread of connection to the kind of life he’s always lived. A life that isn’t about big dreams or grand gestures, but about the small joys—the feel of metal on his fingertips, the hum of the world just outside the door, and the quiet satisfaction of making something with his own two hands.