Patty Bercasio Pascal is a multi-award-winning author, educator, publisher and volunteer.
She came to Canada as a landed immigrant in 1974, with hopes of sponsoring her family and pursuing her studies. After obtaining degrees in English Literature and Counseling, she went on to teach professional development courses in Surrey, British Columbia, worked in Ko-Chang, South Korea as English instructor and as cultural interpreter & settlement worker in schools.
Patty is a passionate advocate for cultural diversity and believes in the power of volunteerism. Patty formed a non-profit organization called Bicol Circle, which promoted leadership, communication skills, and visual and performing arts among youth.
A multi-talented artist and author, Patty published her own magazine (Glean, Voice of Diversity), the book, Tom’s Secret: A Child’s Search and is currently writing her memoir, My Journey: An Immigrant’s Story of Survival.
This one-on-one interview shares Patty Bercasio Pascal’s background and experience in writing Tom’s Secret: A Child’s Search.
Tell us about Tom’s Secret: A Child’s Search.
In the book, a young boy named Tom, is subjected to endless harassment and is unable to find meaningful help at home and in school. He is sick of life and himself, but what he realizes is that his dilemma really has nothing to do with him.
Tom’s story is fascinating because despite all of the hardships he had to go through, the resilience of the human spirit withstood the test and he eventually triumphs.
How the problem develops, surfaces, and is ultimately resolved will take readers on a journey every parent and school system should be aware of. Tom’s redemption and his parents’ awakening add drama to this very timely and thought-provoking issue.
What inspired you to write Tom’s Secret: A Child’s Search?
Through meetings and symposiums, I came to understand the immediate concerns of new immigrants–language barriers, acculturation, separation, discrimination, and mostly bullying in schools.
I heard their stories and provided them with options and community resources available to make their transition to life in a new society easier.
I wanted this book to be a teaching tool in accepting and embracing multiculturalism.
How did your background and experience influence your writing?
I woke up one morning and was inspired to write about anti-bullying.
My educational background, work experience as a cultural interpreter, translator and mentor, as well as my interactions with immigrants as an advocate for diversity played important roles in paving the way forward to share this story.
What is one message you would like readers to remember?
By reading this book, my intention is for readers to realize how the problem developed, surfaced, and was ultimately resolved.
It’s important for readers to believe in themselves and never give up – despite the hurdles or setbacks they may be facing.
Furthermore, I encourage readers to pursue the opportunities they have been given with determination, by paying it forward in service to others, and appreciating the blessings they have received.
Purchasing the Book
Tom’s Secret: A Child’s Search has received positive reviews from well-known experts, authors, and reviewers around the world. Malcolm Brodie, the Mayor of Richmond, British Columbia writes, “In today’s society, the prevalence of bullying is one of the most pressing issues facing our youth. This book touches on important matters surrounding bullying and illustrates how it affects children and their families. I commend this powerful and educational story which serves as an inspiration of hope for future generations.” In addition, parent Emilie Liu writes, “Patty is a voice for those unheard and silent victims. We will always appreciate this great contribution to prevent bullying.”
In times of unprecedented change and uncertainty, Tom’s Secret: A Child’s Search serves as an important reminder of the actions that must be taken to prevent and protect children against bullying. Available for sale on Amazon and Friesen Press, readers are encouraged to purchase their copy today: https://books.friesenpress.com/store/title/119734000015254536/Patty-Bercasio-Pascal-Tom%27s-Secret
Connect with Patty Bercasio Pascal
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profie.php?id=10000031887667
Twitter: https://twitter.com/patriap6855
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/patria-pascal-b70a10rb4
Media Contact
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Contact Person: Media Relations
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Country: United States
Website: authornewsnetwork.com