Just So Stories

ISBN: 9781764398640

ISBN-10: 1764398645

May 2026

Contempo Publishing/Katherine Owens

It was an exciting challenge to be contacted by Katherine and asked to create some supporting resources for this book, as it is something completely out of my usual repertoire. But this collection of micro-memoirs is such a worthy addition to a library, a counsellor/guidance officer’s shelves or as a valuable adjunct to personal development/formation classes that it was a pleasure to extend myself. Katherine says: At lunch one day, a fellow mum and I shared the same frustration. I said, “Someone needs to write a book for older kids and teens about real people.” Then I realised… why not me?

So I did. My debut book features 17 short stories based on interviews with everyday people who have overcome challenges and achieved extraordinary things. It explores tough topics in an age-appropriate way, encourages empathy and gratitude, and reminds young readers that hope, resilience, connection and feelings of belonging can be found all around them.

There is certainly no doubt that these chapters encompass all of that, from a variety of people, all ages, cultures, experiences and walks of life, all of whom have shown such remarkable fortitude and courage to not only overcome the adversitities they faced but to speak about them. Each chapter is prefaced with the possible trigger warnings pertinent to each individual’s story. There are stories of abuse, isolation, illness/chronic conditions, accidents, addictions and more but from each young people can draw inspiration and develop strategies of their own to aid their own resilience, and to gain inspiration for goals and aspirations.

Katherine’s book has already received great response from support agencies and individuals in the fields of counselling and mental health. It will make such an important addition to a library collection or schools’ kitbag of resources. In the troubled times we find ourselves in building our teens’ capacity to withstand and overcome fortitude is arguably even more important. I highly recommend this to you and give it a 4 💪💪💪💪rating for secondary students.

Katherine’s events will be of interest to many Brisbane locals. “Any event information will be posted on Katherine’s website and social media and books are available for pre-order from her website now.” Brisbane launch date is 26th May in Wynnum.

Social Media and Website details:
My website is www.katherineowens.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/k.owens.author
Instagram: http://www.instagram/katherine_owens_author/

Blurb from the back of the book: 

Extraordinary Stories shows that everyone – yes, everyone, has a story powerful enough to feature in a published book. Through 17 real-life adventures, readers meet people whose lives are shocking, heartwarming, inspiring, and everything in between. These stories prove you don’t need to be rich or famous to live a meaningful, successful life.

As you jump between different times, places, and perspectives, you’ll discover how much we can learn from the people around us. The book encourages stronger connections, honest conversations, and a deeper sense of kindness and empathy, because the more we understand each other, the better we all become.