FAIRHOPE — Driven by a passion for storytelling, Zach Wilson aspires to inspire young hearts with the message that each child holds a unique and invaluable purpose in the world, conveyed through the art of narrative.

Since a young age, the Daphne resident always loved writing, but it was not until his later years when he would be rekindled with his dream of becoming an author.

"When I was in first grade, I really wanted to be an author," Wilson said. "That kind of lived in my heart until about middle school or high school. The dream died away. Then, back in college, ever since then, I have been really passionate about it."

Wilson's drive for writing was at full speed, giving him the idea to write his first book called "Every Tree has its Place."

This book shares the story of Paw Paw Bear and Bridger Bear going on a journey through The Great Wood. The story is guided by the message of Ephesians 2:10, giving Paw Paw Bear the opportunity to share the meaning of Bridger Bear's individual gifts and talents.

"The characters are actually based off me and my Paw Paw because it is kind of centered around a lesson that he taught me," Wilson said. "Every tree has its place, and we all have a place in the world that God has put us in. Just growing up, all the love that he showed me and shared with me and, you know, all the lessons that he taught me, still stay with me in my heart."

As a father and someone who serves with the children's ministry at the Church of the Highlands in Daphne, Wilson emphasized the importance of instilling in children the awareness of their purpose in life.

"I really feel that if people know in their hearts that God has made them uniquely, that they will be more intentional about spreading those gifts that were meant to be used and spread to others," he said.

A few days after releasing his first book, Wilson woke up to a message from Amazon stating that his first book was No. 1 best seller in the children's fiction inspirational category.

"It was surreal," he said. "I literally woke up, and the next day I looked and it was No. 1. Surreal is probably the best word to describe it."

On Nov. 19, Wilson held a book signing at Page and Pallet in hopes to share his story with those who visited.

With his passion on display for thousands of readers, Wilson hopes to not just spread the word of God but hopes to inspire others to continue to chase their dream and use their gifts to share with others.