Vail’s Tales This is where readers first entered Vail’s wonderfully imaginative world.

Published in 2019, the original Vail’s Tales brings together four stories inspired by the pages Vail left behind. There are stars, mermaids, friends and even a stool, but beneath their playful premises are messages about imagination, possibility, friendship and love.

Veteran journalist and children’s author Ed Payne helped shape Vail’s original writings for publication, while illustrator Britt Sekulić brought her ideas to life in color.

It became more than the first book in a series. It fulfilled the dream Vail shared with her mother just one day before her passing.

Carry the Story Forward

Vail’s story did not end with the pages she left behind. It continues every time a child opens one of her books, a student is given an opportunity, a family is supported, or a community comes together through the work of Friends of Vail.

And there is a place for you in that story.

If you would like to be part of the Friends of Vail mission, we invite you to stay connected and help us continue creating opportunities rooted in faith, learning, generosity and community.

Subscribe to the Friends of Vail newsletter to receive updates on our programs, upcoming events, new Vail’s Tales releases and meaningful ways to get involved throughout the year.

You can also support the mission by purchasing and sharing the Vail’s Tales collection, making a donation, volunteering, attending an event or simply introducing someone new to Vail’s story.

Every book shared, every person reached and every act of generosity helps carry her imagination and her heart forward.

Seven stories began with one extraordinary little girl. What they continue to inspire is still being written.

EXPLORE VAIL’S TALES