on Growing in the Grey

Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

Chicago author on growing in the gray, Chicago author Christian Cook, new book, “Growing in the Gray”, tells the story of Christa Clark, a young woman who learns that starting over isn’t always black and white. Kristen Cook says art imitated life when writing this book. “Moving to the city was extremely interesting to me because it was so different. I never lived in a city this big. I was meeting new people and enjoying new experiences immersing myself in a city where I did not know anyone.” Cook says her journal entries became the basis for “Growing in the Grey”. “It was about growing up and growing through life and not being sure of one’s choices”, Cook says. “There’s no decision where I felt 100% sure. It wasn’t black and white, but it was always in between. It was gray. I kept pushing myself because I felt that I would end up where I was supposed to be one day”. Cook moved to Chicago to attend college, initially choosing to study journalism, but later switching to public relations. While she always loved writing, she wasn’t sure of the type of writer she wanted to be. Through journaling, she found her creative voice. “It was through journaling that I was able to exercise my creative writing skills”.

It’s a classic coming-of-age story. “Growing in the Grey” centers around the main character, Christa Clark, who moves from Michigan to Chicago to attend college. She desires a career as an art curator but finds herself struggling to fit in, make friends and navigate an unsure romantic relationship. Cook says “Growing in the Grey” is the first in a series of books that will take readers on a journey as her main character, Christa Clark navigates her college experience. Cook says the book is perfect for anyone who struggles to fit in or who is starting a new chapter in their life. Cok also says her character is similar to her in that she also had to make a choice to start over and begin to live in her purpose. “I quit my job at the PR agency I was working at because it no longer served me. I was tired of having my ideas shut down and it got to the point where I didn’t need anyone’s validation or approval. So here I am embracing my life as a writer, artist, and creative. It was scary initially, but as I continue, it gives me the courage to keep going”.

Cook says starting over can be intimidating, but it is important to write down your goals and dreams. She also says putting yourself out there is key, especially when switching careers. “Get connected, join groups, and attend networking events where you can meet people who are doing what you want to do. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Know who you are, what you want, and what you hope to gain. Then get yourself connected”.

“Growing in the Grey” is available online at Amazon and Barnes and Noble bookstores.