Why We Created Trying
OUR STORY
This book was born during a messy afternoon when Liz came over to meet Alessa’s son, Bolt. Amidst bowls of baby oatmeal and the chaos of early motherhood, the conversation turned to what Liz, a bestselling parenting author, should write next. Alessa had a surprising suggestion: a "prequel."
It was not a suggestion for a pregnancy guide. It was an invitation into the unvarnished reality of the six years it took to bring Bolt home. As Alessa shared the story of her treatments, surgeries, and losses, Liz felt a profound realization. Despite her career supporting parents, she had not known how to be there for her own friend who had been struggling in silence.
We knew immediately that a new book needed to exist, serving two essential purposes:
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To give others a compassionate companion for the often-silent struggle with infertility and loss.
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To give friends and family the language and tools to truly be supportive.
We decided to sit side-by-side and create the resource we both wished we had.
A Book Built on Shared Stories
To ensure our guide captured a full spectrum of experiences, we conducted extensive interviews to gather stories that destigmatize, normalize, and legitimize the complex emotions of the family building journey.
Trying is more than just advice. It is a collection of voices and the beginning of an ongoing conversation.
This project became a source of healing.
We found strength in conversation,
in sharing our experiences together.
Alessa Martin
Alessa Martin is a brand strategist and luxury marketing executive who has spent her career creating stories that connect with millions. Following years of infertility and loss, she applied her expertise in design and storytelling to create a resource that meets this experience with beauty and dignity.
Having endured a late term pregnancy loss while writing Trying, Alessa understands firsthand that there is no simple resolution for the grief and uncertainty of family building. Her mission is to ensure the emotional reality of this process is shared and supported rather than hidden.
Liz Swenson
Liz Swenson is a bestselling author and illustrator of parenting and children’s books. Her work is known for being helpful, humorous, and endlessly supportive. Her evocative illustrations provide the "soft landing" within these pages, creating a heart-led experience where readers feel seen and understood.
As a mother of three, she is inspired to make the world more loving, beautiful, and inclusive. You can view her full catalog at LizSwenson.org or follow her @lizswensonBFF on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.