For this month’s column, Engaging Stories Editor Michelle Gant shares the story behind the More Things I Wish I’d Known, the second collection of inspiring personal essays written by women, to raise money for Women’s Aid
“If you don’t see the book you want on the shelf, write it,”– Beverly Cleary. And so, we did just that! On Saturday 8th March – International Women’s Day – our new book of uplifting, inspiring, thought-provoking, and moving essays by women More Things I Wish I’d Known was launched. Covering a raft of relatable themes such as body confidence, friendship, grief, careers, motherhood, and much more, the new book also offers snapshots of practical ideas and tips. And there is space for the reader to become the writer and capture their own reflections and ideas at the end.
This book follows on from our first collection of essays by women – The Things I Wish I’d Known – which was published in 2023. And crucially, it is, once again, raising money for Women’s Aid with 100% of royalties going towards this important cause.
I am so thrilled to see the book in print. I have been absolutely blown away by the response from women who have been keen to share their personal experiences, thoughts, and ideas to support and inspire other women. I really do not underestimate what a thing it is to share of yourself so vulnerably and openly.
Thank you so much to everyone who has supported More Things I Wish I’d Known, and to everyone who buys it and helps us to raise money for Women’s Aid. I hope that readers find connection within the pages of the book.
My ambition is to carry on creating more collaborative books like these that can make a difference for the writer, the reader, and charities. Watch this space…
Extracts from the book
“Embrace your uniqueness, celebrate your strengths, and remember: you are so much more than what the world sees,” Lorna Blackmore
“However we admire and maximise the huge benefits of tech, there are times, and will always be times, when human interaction, a voice, and a listening ear will be an absolute necessity!” Steph Allen
“Imagine what life would be like if we celebrated JOMO (the joy of missing out) rather than tried to avoid FOMO (fear of missing out,” Sam James.
“Get to know yourself better than anyone else. And if something truly matters to you, and makes your heart sing, it matters,” Hannah Freeman.
“We can’t guarantee the future, or anything beyond this moment. So give yourselves a moment to stop, think, and be,” Lisa Collen.
“If there is a dream that burns inside you, don’t ignore it. If you have a purpose, a passion, an ambition that refuses to be ignored – don’t. Let it out,” Michelle Gant.
To coincide with the More Things I Wish I’d Known: book launch, Michelle Gant is teaming up with Bridgit Richards from Power On and Gemma Brown Coaching to host a Lift up, power on webinar taking place on Monday 10 March, 2025, at 6pm. The session will feature highlights from the new book, as well as thoughts and ideas and short exercises. The details are here: Eventbrite. You can buy the book on amazon.co.uk. To find out about future opportunities to get involved with engaging stories, visit engagingstories.uk.
Featured image of Michelle Gant and other images – supplied
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