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Tuesday, 11 November 2025
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Written by Anna White
Creating and consuming stories has always been part of Kayla E. Green’s life. In elementary school, she wrote her first “book,” calling it The Lonely Guinea Pig. Then, at a schoolbook fair, Green found a book with a title that resonated with her; its theme included siblings with chronic illness.
Growing up watching her twin sister struggle with a severe autoimmune condition, Green found the title, which included similar themes, alluring. The story was a disappointment, though. She described it as “depressing and hopeless,” but it made her think.
“Children and adolescents who have chronic illness and know people closely who have invisible/visible disabilities deserve to find realistic portrayals that still offer encouragement,” she shared. Now facing the challenges of chronic illness herself as an adult, Green is even more motivated to fill that gap. She writes the kind of books she wanted to read when she was younger; Young Adult noblebright fantasy novels that point to greater themes of light, darkness, and ultimate hope.
“Nobelbright is a subgenre where good prevails over evil,” Green explained. Her recent publication and first full-length novel, The Goodness of Unicorns, explores just that.
She says the story follows “one girl determined to heal her sister and another looking for purpose in a nation on the brink of war. And unicorns—with a twist you’ve never seen before.”
The Goodness of Unicorns received the International Christ Lit Book Award, and the following praise from CEO Louise Jane: “The plot is a marvel in itself, brimming with meaningful details that provoke thought and reflection. I greatly appreciated the way the narrative begins by presenting two fascinating stories that are later intertwined, resulting in a fantastic tale that keeps readers interested and excited to flip through the pages.
"Green's storytelling is not just entertaining; it is imbued with values that are vitally important for young adults to be exposed to. The narrative emphasizes the significance of faith and the reliance on God, particularly in times when prayers seem unanswered.”
Previously a teacher and now a mother, Green says she's always felt called to minister to young people. Motivated by the memory of her own childhood interest in relatable stories and her faith in Christ, she hopes to fill a gap in the literary world by writing what she describes as “clean, age-appropriate reads that children enjoy.”
“Though the story will appeal to readers of fantasy, it is written from a Christian worldview,” she shared. She hopes that through writing “wholesome stories that don’t shy away from hard truths,” her readers will be pointed to God and His goodness.
“Even though there is darkness in the world, and we don’t always see the light because of it, God is always there,” she said, quoting Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
For a signed copy of The Goodness of Unicorns and a chance to meet the author, visit Fulfillity Books & More, located at 5548 Trade St. in Hope Mills, Nov. 15, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“I’m hoping having the signing and her books at the store will introduce her to a new audience,” said Ashley Wilson, owner and author at Fulfillity Books & More. “Fulfillity is built to be a reflection of the local reader community. By keeping local authors stocked, we not only support other independent ‘businesses,’ but help our local reader community have a taste of what’s nearby to encourage community connection and pride.”
“I love meeting readers of all ages!” concluded Green. “If anyone has not visited Fulfillity yet, then this is the perfect opportunity to check out this precious shop!”
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Tuesday, 11 November 2025
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Written by Sheila D. Barker
On Saturday, Nov. 22, the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra invites music lovers to enjoy an afternoon or evening of wit, warmth, and world-class musicianship at Arts XL located at 214 Burgess St., Fayetteville. The concert, titled “Coffee Cantata,” will feature two performances of Johann Sebastian Bach’s comedic masterpiece, along with his Orchestral Suite No. 2. Doors open at 1 p.m. for the 2 p.m. matinee and again at 6:30 p.m. for the 7:30 p.m. evening performance.
Tickets are available online at https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/, by calling the FSO office at 910-433-4690, or at the door on the day of the event. Discounts are offered for seniors, military, college students, children, and Cumberland County Schools employees, making this an accessible event for the entire community. This concert is made possible in part by generous grants from the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County and the North Carolina Arts Council.
A Blend of Music and Humor
This engaging program is a highlight of the FSO’s 2025–2026 season, celebrating the lighter side of classical music with Bach’s “Coffee Cantata.” Often described as a miniature comic opera, the work humorously depicts a daughter’s obsession with coffee and her father’s attempts to cure her of it, a theme that feels surprisingly modern for a piece written nearly 300 years ago.
Led by Music Director Stefan Sanders, the performance will feature a chamber ensemble and three distinguished vocalists who will bring Bach’s playful story to life. To complement the mood, coffee and pastries will be served, allowing audience members to sip along with the symphony’s storytelling literally.
Between Bach’s humor and his musical brilliance, the concert promises an afternoon or evening that blends artistry, comedy, and community connection for a truly “stimulating” experience for the senses.
Spotlight on the Soloists
The FSO is proud to present three acclaimed soloists whose combined talent and stage experience promise to make “Coffee Cantata” sparkle with charm and vocal excellence.
Anna Flynn, soprano, brings a fresh and expressive voice to the production. A graduate of the University of South Carolina with a B.A. in Voice Performance and the University of Tennessee with a M.M. in Voice Performance, Flynn has performed a range of operatic roles, including Gretel in Hänsel und Gretel, Serpetta in La Finta Giardiniera, and Frasquita in Carmen. Her concert repertoire includes Handel’s Messiah and Mozart’s Vesperae Solennes de Confessore. Based in Columbia, SC, Flynn performs regularly throughout the Southeast.
Jaeyoon Kim, tenor, is an internationally trained artist with an impressive academic and performance background. Holding a Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance from the University of South Carolina, Dr. Kim has also earned master’s degrees in both Choral Conducting and Vocal Performance, as well as an Artist Diploma from the Cleveland Institute of Music.
Currently a Professor at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Dr. Kim directs the University Chorale and Pembroke Singers, leading major choral works by Handel, Mozart, and Haydn. A resident of Fayetteville, he also serves as Music Director at Hay Street United Methodist Church and teaches at the Montecito International Music Festival in California.
Ramelle Brooks, bass, adds depth and resonance to the trio. A native of Fayetteville and graduate of Fayetteville State University, Brooks holds both Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Music Performance from the University of South Carolina. His diverse resume includes roles with Opera Carolina, Sounds of Charleston, and Augusta University Opera Theatre, performing in operas such as Madame Butterfly and The Magic Flute.
Currently, he is an Assistant Professor of Voice at South Carolina State University and serves as Director of Music at Second Calvary Baptist Church in Columbia, SC.
A Cultural Cup Worth Savoring
FSO’s “Coffee Cantata” offers more than just a concert—it’s an experience. By combining fine music, a touch of humor, and the welcoming aroma of coffee, the event bridges the gap between classical tradition and contemporary enjoyment. Whether you’re a devoted symphony-goer or a newcomer seeking something fresh, this program provides a perfect blend of culture, community, and caffeine.
As FSO Music Director Stefan Sanders notes, “Bach’s Coffee Cantata reminds us that even the greatest composers knew how to have fun. It’s a story about family, love, and the little indulgences that make life sweet, just like coffee itself.”
Bach’s "Coffee Cantata" will be held Nov. 22. Grab a cup and settle in for a delightful musical escape with the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. Don’t miss this chance to savor Bach’s humor, hear some of the region’s finest voices, and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon or evening of music, laughter, and latte love.
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