Today is Catalyntye Trico’s 419th birthday. Since I last wished her a happy birthday, much has happened. Since last year, I have finally finished writing a historical fiction novel about her. Completing this took me over eight years because I usually only had time to work on it after teaching school all day. To accomplish this, I read over 100 books, articles, primary source documents, and maps, then used these resources to organize information and create an accurate backdrop for Catalyntje’s story. Throughout this process, I also learned to edit, promote on social media, format a manuscript, market, and connect with other authors. Finishing this novel was a much larger task than I realized it would be, but I have no regrets. 

As I researched Catalyntje’s life, it became apparent that she was never famous or even well-known in history books. However, her life demonstrated that you don’t need to be perfect or famous to inspire others; you simply need to be sincere, determined and possess ‘mere Bonte,’ also known as human goodness. 

Catalyntje was a strong and independent woman whose life was filled with adventure, heartache, and love. I hope that on her birthday this year, you will come to love and admire her as much as I have these past several years. And, as you learn more about her, she will inspire you to become a positive force to those within your circle of influence and for generations who will come after you.