Valerie Harrigan is a fifth grader from New Freedom, Pa. She enjoys reading, writing, and acting in her free time. Valerie is heavily involved in the Fine Arts Ministry at New Psalmist Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland. Valerie has landed lead and supporting roles in church and school plays. Valerie also plays sports including basketball, field hockey, softball, and cheerleading. She plays the violin and hopes to one day play the saxophone. "Fortunately" is Valerie's first published book. She was inspired to write the book through her fourth grade teacher, Mrs. Susan Thomas. Valerie would like to thank her parents, sisters and brother, grandparents, along with her extended family… (friends) for their continued support. Her teachers who have inspired her love of reading and writing; Ms. Arika Myles, Mrs. Robin Dennis, Mrs. Wolpert, Mrs. Buckler, Mrs. Blasdell, and Mrs. Thomas. A special thanks to Principal Donna Koval, Mrs. Clements, and the entire staff of Southern Elementary School in Glen Rock, Pennsylvania. A tremendous gratitude of thanks to Dr. Demi Stevens, Director of the Paul Smith Library in Shrewsbury, Pa. and staff for all of the help and encouragement. And to all my friends and family, dream big!