"My School Is Gone" (Paperback or Softback)

When Aisha stays home sick from school, she has no idea her world is about to change forever. A sudden bombing destroys her school and takes the lives of her friends and teachers. Overwhelmed by fear, guilt, and confusion, Aisha withdraws into silence, unable to understand why she survived when so many others did not.

With patience and love, her parents guide her to Ms. Khan, a gentle counselor who helps Aisha name her feelings, breathe through her fear, and begin the slow journey toward healing. Through coping skills, honest conversations, and the support of her family, Aisha discovers that even in the darkest moments, hope can grow.

My School Is Gone is a compassionate middle-grade story about trauma, resilience, and the power of connection. It offers young readers a safe space to explore big emotions and reminds them that healing happens one day at a time - and never alone.

Yolanda G. Bowden is a retired federal government professional with 34 years of service, including four years of active duty in the United States Army. As a military spouse for more than 20 years, she built a diverse career across the Department of the Army, the Department of Defense, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the Defense Commissary Agency, where she spent 17 years overseeing customer facing programs, social media, newsletters, and veteran outreach.She holds both a bachelor's and a master's degree and is a proud wife of 33 years, mother of three daughters, and grandmother of three. Her home is filled with joy thanks to her lionhead rabbit J Coal, her long haired guinea pig Caramel Macchiato, and Blaze, her energetic Havanese puppy. Now retired, Yolanda focuses on giving back, supporting families, uplifting communities, and creating meaningful stories that inspire understanding, compassion, and connection.

Mr. Bowden served nearly 21 years on active duty in the United States Army as a 92A Automated Logistical Specialist, with assignments in Korea, Germany, Egypt, and multiple stateside locations. His military career concluded as a 92A Instructor at Fort Lee, Virginia.After retiring from active duty, he began his Department of the Army civilian career in 2005 as a Training Management Specialist at the Quartermaster School, supporting training for the 92A and 92Y programs. He later joined the Civilian Logistics Career Management Office, where he served as a Career Management Specialist, Intern Lead, and ultimately Program Manager for Transportation and Distribution Management, advising on training and career development for more than 6,000 Army civilians.Mr. Bowden is married to Yolanda, and together they have three adult daughters and three grandchildren. He proudly supported his wife throughout his military career and now supports her advocacy work.

Children's Book Illustrator