Content provided by Allison Paradise and The Epicenter

Santa Cruz Accelerate and Founder and CEO of The Epicenter, Allison Paradise, recently released a book titled “The Mistake” which is for anyone who has tried to fit in. It has been enjoyed by children of all ages as a storybook, a coloring book, and an inspiration for writing, illustrating, and sharing stories.

The Story Behind the Story

The Mistake came to me last year as I was walking on the cliffs in Cambria. I was reflecting on how I tend to do things differently and because of this I am often on the outside, not fitting in. Almost in response to these thoughts this book appeared. I went right back to the car and wrote it as it came. 

Although it wasn’t published until this year, the book was the start of The Epicenter, whose mission is to provide an experience of empowerment for students ages 7 – 22. Empowerment begins with being able to see yourself for who you truly are. The Mistake is a beautiful reminder that even though we tend to lose ourselves as we grow older, our authentic selves still reside within us. If only we could break out of our molds – or avoid confining ourselves in them from the beginning – we might have an opportunity to express our true selves and our limitless potential. 

In keeping with the theme of not fitting into a mold, the book is a storybook and a coloring book. It also contains 20 blank pages as inspiration for creating (e.g., writing, illustrating, sharing stories). The Mistake complements the online video series, individual sessions, and group sessions offered by The Epicenter. All of these resources connect students with themselves through true curiosity, wonder, and joy. Our work is rooted in nature, as the natural world inspires open-ended questions and perfectly reflects our natural state. Nature also plays a critical role in The Mistake. 

The Epicenter is excited to share this book with the world, and in particular with our local community, who continues to inspire and support us. The Mistake is available locally at Wonderland Toys in Aptos and it is also available online.