Clear Path Stories exists because we couldn't find the right kinds of books for my sister, who has a learning disability. The stories had to be engaging, easy to read and comprehend, and written for adults rather than children.
For years, my family searched for books that felt appropriate, readable, and respectful. What we found instead were children's books, ESL materials, and instructional programs that focused on teaching rather than reading for enjoyment. Some books were technically simple but emotionally flat or abstract. Many were overwhelming and made reading feel frustrating rather than supportive.
Searching for "books for learning disabled adults" mostly led to books about the disability itself, guides for caregivers or clinicians, or nonfiction books about how to support someone who struggles with reading. We also explored "high-interest, low-reading-level" books, but most leaned toward complex fiction with plots and characters that my sister was unlikely to relate to.
Out of necessity, we tried children's books. She rejected them immediately. Then out of desperation, we tried adult nonfiction, including a book about organizing a closet, a guide to cats, and the art of growing tomatoes! While the topics were closer to her interests, the wording and sentence structure were too long and confusing, and she lost interest after just a few pages.
These experiences shaped everything about Clear Path Stories. It became clear this wasn't a small gap, but a systemic one. Adults with learning disabilities, cognitive challenges, or brain injuries are often expected to use books not designed for them.
One day, I joked to my mother, "Maybe I should write a book!" Later, I thought to myself, "Why not?" I wrote a rough version just for my sister to see if she'd be interested. Even with only four stories, it became the only book she wanted to read. She threw all the other ones in the trash.
Over the following months, I made many refinements. Sentence structure, wording, line spacing, and font choice were all adjusted based on what actually worked for her. Those small changes made a real difference, and they became the foundation of Clear Path Stories.
Many of the best ideas grow out of necessity and personal experience. Clear Path Stories exists for that reason. It fills a real, unmet need.