When I sat down to write Two Wins for Wiley, I had no idea how many questions it would raise — not just for me as the writer, but for readers as well.
Some of you have reached out with thoughts. Others have sat with the story and drawn your own interpretations, which is one of the coolest things about writing a book: once it’s out there, it’s no longer just mine. It’s yours too.
So I thought I’d share a few questions readers have asked — or might ask — about Two Wins for Wiley. Not to spoil anything. Just to spark a little curiosity or reflection, whether you’ve read it or you’re just thinking about it.
Who is Wiley, really?
Wiley is a character who’s been in my head for a while — the kind of child you root for especially when they’re struggling. Wiley loves baseball, misses his dad and suffers from frequent stomach aches. He wants to play his best, but these stomach aches may keep him out of the playoffs. I tried to create a relatable character for the reader.
What are the two “wins”?
Good question — and no, I’m not going to share that with you. But I will say this: not all wins look like trophies. One is pretty visible. The other? Quiet. Maybe even internal. I’ll leave it at that.
Is Wiley based on someone real?
Not exactly. But I think there are bits and pieces of former students. There’s a bit of my husband, who loves baseball — and probably some of myself — in Wiley. That’s how I like to develop characters – when they come from a real place.
What made you choose the setting?
The setting came early, and I needed it to feel both specific and relatable. A place where Wiley’s challenges would feel real and shaped by his surroundings — without being the whole story.
Did anything surprise you while writing it?
Yes! Without giving too much away, there’s a scene where Wiley has a choice to make — and I honestly thought it would go one way. Then Wiley kind of… didn’t. That’s a strange moment as a writer — when your character makes a decision that feels out of your control, but totally right for them.
Is this book just about winning?
Definitely not. It’s about winning and it’s not about losing. It is about Wiley’s experience and finding the courage to face his fear. It’s about not giving up and being open to new things.
Who is this book really for?
I wrote Two Wins for Wiley for readers who are somewhere in the middle — of a challenge, of a big decision, or facing a fear. It is for children who love baseball and understand the importance of being part of a team. For children with a parent or sibling in the military who will connect with Wiley missing his dad. This story will also appeal to those who want to learn about wellness and acupuncture. Wiley’s story is about courage, trust and facing fears.
If Wiley could talk to readers, what would he say?
Probably something like: “It wasn’t as bad as I thought. It was scary, but I am glad I tried it. If I can try something new, then maybe you can too!”
What do I hope sticks with you?
More than anything, I hope you walk away feeling like your own story matters — even the hard parts.
So those are a few of the questions floating around about Two Wins for Wiley. Maybe they sparked one of your own? I’d love to hear it — drop a comment or message if something’s been on your mind.
Thanks for spending a little time with Wiley (and me). Here’s to the wins we don’t always see coming.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve read Two Wins for Wiley, thank you for taking that journey with him. If you haven’t yet, maybe these questions gave you a little window into why this story matters to me—and maybe why it might matter to you, too.
And if you have a question that isn’t on this list, I’d love to hear it. Wiley’s story might be on the page, but it keeps growing through the conversations you bring to it.
CALL TO ACTION
To make sure you don’t miss any posts, be sure to bookmark this page where I will be sharing some great content with my readers.
Join my newsletter – By subscribing to my monthly newsletter, you can look forward to my book recommendations, freebies, craft ideas and more. There’s a beautiful new freebie that awaits just for joining.
Follow me on social media. Instagram and X (Twitter) @drkarenn so let’s reconnect! [https://www.instagram.com/drkarenn/].
Don’t forget to add Two Wins for Wiley to your “Want to Read” list!(https://tinyurl.com/wh7xvzve)
Add Gertie Saves the Day to your “Want to Read” list. [https://tinyurl.com/mvucpk7j].
Add Gertie Saves the Day Audio Book to your “Audio Book” list. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09CZH64D5?ref=KC_GS_GB_US
Do not forget that books make great gifts. Books can be read over and over again. They are the gift that keeps on giving. Don’t forget classroom teachers, they love to get children’s books for their libraries. It is my wish to get as many books as I can into the hands of children. Children need books and you can help by sharing a book with a child.
With gratitude …
I am so glad you’re here. Thank you for taking the time to read this post. I am grateful that I can share my writing journey with you. It is an endless adventure of learning and growing.
I am now booking author visits for the 2025-2026 school year. If you are a classroom teacher, teacher assistant, Parent Teacher Association President, After School Director, or Girl Scout Leader. I can work with you to create a visit that will meet the needs of your students. Please contact me to book your visit.
My website is constantly being updated and it is interactive. There are surprises everywhere. Be sure to check out the resources for children, parents and teachers, librarians and homeschool families.
Until Next Time …
Karen