Alumna gets creative for children’s book

Alumna gets creative for children’s book

Marina Boyle, Features editor

Mercyhurst alumna Kristin Pierce has gained recognition this winter with the release of her newest book, “Mayva O’Meere, Creationeer.”

Pierce is a 2008 graduate who majored in Sports Medicine and played volleyball at Mercyhurst. Following her education, she worked for some years in less creative fields, but ultimately found a passion for writing that stemmed from her time as a Laker.

Pierce is a self-awareness educator whose mission is to empower others. Her life has included many triumphs, including a battle against ovarian cancer during her time at Mercyhurst in 2007. “Mayva O’Meere, Creationeer” is her second book for children, following the release of “Your Inner Compass That Could” in early 2018.

Pierce credits Mercyhurst for influencing her writing with its liberal arts curriculum.

“I was actually a Sports Medicine major at Mercyhurst, which was an integral part of my journey to where I am today,” Pierce said. “However, it was the required core classes at Mercyhurst which have influenced my writing the most, as these classes expanded my understanding of the world in general in many different facets.”

“Mayva O’Meere, Creationeer” is a story of self-discovery that focuses on a creative mind and imaginative thinking. In particular, Pierce remembered her Art Appreciation class at the Hurst as inspiration for this book.

“When I first began writing “Mayva O’Meere, Creationeer,” I had the idea to add Starry Night into the text. My daughter who, as a toddler, finger painted with yogurt all over her high chair tray and told us she was painting a starry night,” Pierce said.

“In the process of creationeering this book, my love of art history was reignited. In particular, the Art Appreciation class I attended at Mercyhurst had a significant impact. Despite having to memorize and regurgitate titles, artists and eras about more artwork that my brain could retain, I was in complete awe of the minds of these artists. It was this fascination that led me to add a historic art element to ‘Mayva O’Meere, Creationeer.’”

The book contains 19 historic art references within the illustrations of the picture book. There is also a creative art reference guide which gives children information about each work of art.

The story’s initial release was on Nov. 13. It is a 44-page story recommended for children ages 4 to 8.

Pierce said that she is most excited about the skills the book can nurture in children’s development and how it can encourage children to think outside the box.

“I am most excited to share the power of creativity with children in a way that inspires them to follow their dreams,” Pierce said. “Creativity is a potent gift that we all possess and one which is often undervalued. It is my hope that the book will empower parents and children alike to exercise their creative muscles and pursue their passions.”

When asked about advice for current students considering pursuing writing, Pierce had lots of inspiration to provide.

“My best advice is to write about what you are passionate about. Write about what lights up your face and makes you so excited that you can’t stop talking about it,” Pierce said.

In addition, Pierce encouraged all students to never underestimate the power of editing and to appreciate every class they take.

“Remember that no learning or education is ever wasted, even if you think you’re being forced to take a class. See everything as an opportunity to learn, gain perspective and grow. You can always change your mind, redefine yourself and try something new,” she said.

Pierce lives in Saskatchewan, Canada, with her husband, two children and their dog. She is now working on future projects and continuing to inspire others.

For all those interested in checking it out, her book can be found on Amazon or Barnes & Noble online as the perfect gift and educational tool for any inquisitive child.