Young Author Ava Turchin Publishes First Children’s Book

Aspen fourth-grader Ava Turchin is beginning her journey as an author at an age when most children are just discovering their favorite books. She has officially released her first children’s title, How the Stars Became, marking an impressive early milestone in her creative life.

A Magical Story Inspired by Folklore and the Night Sky

The 32-page hardcover book, illustrated by Lekshmi Murali, invites young readers into an imaginative tale about the origins of the night sky. Drawing inspiration from Native American storytelling traditions and childhood curiosity, the story follows a playful coyote who encounters a human tossing stones toward the sun, unknowingly shaping images across the sky.

The coyote’s curiosity sparks a chain of events that leads to an unexpected accident—one that forever changes the night above. Through this gentle mishap, readers discover how wonder, curiosity, and chance can create something magical.

Inspiration Rooted in Aspen’s Culture and Nature

Ava says the idea for the book was influenced by stories she heard both at Aspen Elementary School and during summer camp at the Farm Collaborative. She also credits Aspen’s natural beauty for fueling her imagination.

“The Native American stories we heard and the incredible night sky here really inspired me,” Ava said. “Looking up at the stars in Aspen has always made me dream.”

From Idea to Book: A Yearlong Creative Process

While the concept came to her quickly, Ava spent months writing and refining the story. The project evolved into a carefully edited children’s book designed to become a meaningful bedtime read.

According to the book’s press materials, How the Stars Became aims to spark children’s sense of wonder and deepen their appreciation for the stars and celestial world above them.

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Family Support and Community Enthusiasm

Ava’s mother, Gina Turchin, said her daughter has always loved reading and writing. The idea to publish the story gained momentum after Ava shared it with friends during dinner.

“Ava mentioned she had written a story, and once she told it, one of our friends immediately said it needed to become a book,” Gina said. “We agreed and started the process right away.”

The publishing journey took about a year, during which Ava worked closely with editor Liz Bollinger. Ava also played an active role in reviewing the illustrations, offering feedback, and approving final artwork.

A Sold-Out Book Signing and Big Future Plans

The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with Ava’s book launch event selling out. Gina hopes the experience encourages other local writers—and especially children—to pursue their ideas.

“We learned so much through this process,” she said. “We hope it inspires other kids to keep going after their dreams, even when it feels intimidating.”

Ava says this is just the beginning.

“I want people to feel inspired that a young child can publish a book,” she said. “So they know they can do it too.”

Where to Find the Book

How the Stars Became is now available for purchase online through Barnes & Noble and locally at Aspen Eclectic, located at 635 E. Cooper Ave.

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