I’ve officially sent the info to my cover designers—a lock-in that will disallow any major changes to the book. Sending my book off for the final cover design feels like releasing a piece of myself. It’s not perfect—nothing ever is—but it’s a step forward. I’m proud of continuing this sequel amidst the chaos of the world, the joys of parenting, and the demands of teaching. And just as I’ve learned to let go of the need for perfection in my art, I’ve also made the decision to let go of the social media platforms that no longer serve a positive purpose or the future I want to help build.
The Phoenix and the Ant series is about fighting evil, both the blatant and the subtle, and about holding onto hope even when the world feels heavy. It’s about overcoming the fear of failure—and failure itself—and continuing on because there is always work to do. It’s about the responsibility we have as adults to guide the next generation toward a better future. Leaving Twitter and Meta isn’t just a personal choice; it’s a statement. It’s a way of saying that I believe in spaces—both in my stories and in my life—that uplift, inspire, and protect rather than harm. And to abandon those that work for the opposite.
So, as I release my novel and step away from these platforms, I’m reminded of what truly matters: the stories we tell, the connections we nurture, and the world we’re building for those who come after us. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. And if my books can help even one person find the courage to fight for what’s good, then I’ll know I’ve done my part.
I will always work toward what I believe is the right path. Whether through my actions to fight climate change, support minority groups whose rights are under threat, or stand up for my own country as its sovereignty is challenged by our neighbours to the south. Call them what you will—nazis, fascists, techno-feudalists—it doesn’t matter. There are those who seek to make the world better for themselves at the expense of others. We all have our ways of fighting back: through politics, donations, community building, education, or art. All of it helps.
When things feel like they’re only getting worse, that’s the time to connect with those who want to make things better. And when you’re feeling like you’re at the bottom, like you can’t help anymore, it’s okay to lower your head, close your eyes, and rest. We are all fighting. And in that fight, even the smallest acts of courage and kindness matter. It’s okay to still enjoy life—to play games, enjoy nature, or lose yourself in a good book. In fact, it’s important to find joy, even when it feels impossible.
Take care, enjoy the good times, fight the bad times, and check in on those you care about.
SMVL Trudeau
SMVLTRUDEAU 