From a Big Hat to a Big Honor: Lil' Frank and the Big Hat Wins International Impact Book Award

Author Tracy Myers Wins International Impact Book Award

When I wrote Lil' Frank and the Big Hat, I wasn't trying to win an award.

I wasn't trying to become a children's author.

And I certainly wasn't expecting the book to become a best-seller and later receive an International Impact Book Award.

I was simply trying to tell a story.

A story about confidence.

A story about believing in yourself when others doubt you.

A story about having the courage to stand out in a world that often encourages us to fit in.

If you've ever seen me, you know I've been wearing a big red, white, and blue hat on TV for a very long time. That hat became part of my personal brand at Frank Myers Auto Maxx, but it also became something bigger. It became a symbol of being comfortable with who you are, even when you're different.

That's exactly what Lil' Frank and the Big Hat is about.

The book follows a young boy who learns that what makes him different can actually become his greatest strength. It's a lesson I learned through my own journey as a business owner, speaker, author, and entrepreneur. It's a lesson I wanted to pass along to the next generation.

Receiving the International Impact Book Award is incredibly humbling because it recognizes books that make a positive difference in the lives of readers. As someone who believes that every person has a story worth sharing and a unique gift worth developing, this recognition means a great deal to me.

What's even more special is knowing that families, parents, grandparents, teachers, and young readers have embraced the message. Every note, photo, review, and conversation about the book reminds me that stories still matter.

In a world filled with screens, distractions, and noise, stories have the power to inspire, teach, encourage, and connect us.

I am grateful to everyone who purchased a copy, shared it with a child, read it at bedtime, or encouraged others to discover it. Your support is the reason this little book has had such a big impact.

As I reflect on this award, I'm reminded that success isn't always measured by sales numbers, rankings, or trophies. Sometimes success is knowing that a message reached the people who needed to hear it.

If Lil' Frank and the Big Hat has encouraged even one child to believe in themselves a little more, then it has already accomplished its mission.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

And remember...

Never be afraid to wear your own version of the big hat.

It just might change your life.