Growing up, my house was filled with books. They were everywhere and especially piled up next to my mom’s favorite reading chair. My mom absorbed books like she needed them to survive, much like food. Watching her read was like witnessing someone in their element, completely at peace and yet utterly engaged. It was through her that I learned the true power of stories.
From a young age, I noticed how my mom would lose herself in the pages of a book. Sometimes so much that my brother and I would be right next to her, arguing because we knew it was the only time we could get away with it. Our mom wasn’t just reading; she was living the stories, feeling every emotion, crying, laughing, and experiencing every adventure. Her passion for reading was infectious.
Whenever I had a book to read for school, she would read it too. This wasn’t just a casual skim; she would dive deep into the text, ready to discuss it with me at any moment. Our home became a place of intelligent conversations, where we dissected characters, debated plot points, and explored themes together. And made some incredible school projects!
Looking back, I realize that discussing books with my mom was one of the most significant bonding moments of my childhood, even though I didn’t fully appreciate it at the time. I enjoyed our talks, and sometimes she would even read aloud to me, her voice bringing the characters to life in a way that only she could. She answered my questions with patience and curiosity, encouraging me to think critically and empathetically. Those evenings were magical, and I often find myself wishing I could go back and relive them. This longing is one of the reasons I write now—so that our book discussions never have to end. Through my own stories, I can continue the conversations we started all those years ago.
I wanted to create books like the ones she had stacked up in our living room, books that could transport readers into the life of someone different than them and make them feel deeply. I wanted to write stories that could spark the same kind of conversations my mom and I had, stories that could be shared and discussed. Her passion for reading became my inspiration for writing.
Now, as an author, the best part is that we get to discuss my stories. It’s a full-circle moment that fills me with immense joy. Seeing my mom read my books, knowing that she is experiencing the worlds I’ve created, is incredibly fulfilling. Our conversations have evolved, but the essence remains the same. We still dive deep into the text, exploring characters and themes, and sharing our thoughts and feelings. She is also my harshest critic.
Writing has become a way for me to give back to my mom, to honor the love of reading she instilled in me. It’s my way of saying thank you for all the hours she spent reading with me, for all the discussions that shaped my understanding of stories, and for being my biggest supporter. Her influence is woven into every word I write, and I am forever grateful for her guidance and inspiration.
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with information, my mom taught me the value of slowing down and immersing myself in a good book. She showed me that stories have the power to connect us, to teach us, and to inspire us. Through her, I learned that reading is not just a pastime but a way of life.
As I continue my journey as an author, I carry my mom’s love for reading with me. It is a constant reminder of why I write and who I write for. I hope that my stories can bring the same joy and connection to others that my mom’s favorite books brought to her. And I hope that somewhere, someone is having a conversation about one of my books, just like the ones my mom and I had.
Thank you, Mom, for being my first and greatest inspiration. Your love for reading has shaped my life in more ways than I can count, and I am proud to share this journey with you.
Chaz Hayden is the author of the YA novel The First Thing About You. Through his writing and his YouTube channel, he speaks with abundant positivity and encourages people to “Be different. Leave a trail.” He grew up in New Jersey and now lives in Pennsylvania, where he highlights accessibility in his community and spends too much time thinking about his next tattoo and what concerts to attend. Chaz Hayden is also a director at Ballers & Bookworms, a nonprofit that supports underserved student-athletes. Follow him on social media @TheChazHayden.