Concealed Weapons

Celebrating the Courage of Today's Abandoned American Youth

Concealed Weapons is a powerful collection of short stories that celebrate young Americans who turn perceived weaknesses into strength, identity, and personal growth.

About the Book

"Concealed Weapons" is more than a book—it's a movement to recognize and celebrate the incredible potential within every young person. Through seven compelling stories, author Alana Renee explores the journeys of youth who have transformed their struggles into strengths.

Each story reveals how today's youth carry "concealed weapons"—not instruments of harm, but powerful tools of resilience, creativity, empathy, and wisdom that can change the world.

This book serves as both inspiration and practical guide for parents, educators, and youth workers who believe in the transformative power of seeing potential where others see problems.

Concealed Weapons Book Cover

Available Now

Paperback & Digital Editions

"A must-read for anyone working with youth. These stories will change how you see the potential in every young person."
JBSI Astronaut Mascot

This book is truly special! 📚 'Concealed Weapons' reveals the hidden strengths in every young person. Let me tell you what makes these stories so powerful.

Watch the Book Trailer

Get a glimpse into the powerful stories that celebrate the courage and resilience of today's youth.

Seven Transformative Stories

Each story in "Concealed Weapons" reveals a different aspect of youth empowerment, showcasing the hidden strengths that emerge when young people are truly seen and supported.

Story 1: The Power Within

Discovering inner strength when facing adversity

Story 2: Voices Unheard

Finding courage to speak truth in difficult situations

Story 3: Bridges Not Walls

Building connections across differences

Story 4: The Compass

Navigating moral choices with wisdom

Story 5: Rising Above

Transforming challenges into opportunities for growth

Story 6: The Mirror

Self-reflection and authentic identity development

Story 7: Legacy Builders

Creating positive impact for future generations

"Every young person carries within them concealed weapons of greatness. Our job is not to fear these weapons, but to help them discover and wield them for good."

— Alana Renee, Author & JBSI Founder

Invite JBSI to Your School

Introduce these everyday heroes to your young readers and bring powerful, possibility-focused storytelling to your campus. Schedule an author meet-and-greet with Alana Reneé, who delivers dynamic sessions ranging from program overviews for administrators to interactive mini-debates that challenge students to seek solutions and think with confidence and curiosity.

Program Features

Flexible scheduling for onsite or virtual visits
Interactive, student-centered presentations
Literacy, family, and community engagement opportunities

Book a School Visit

Elevate student and educator mindset with an inspiring Junior Bright Scholars Institute experience. Schedule an onsite or virtual visit to spark dialogue, build confidence, and empower middle-school learners to see their value and potential.

Start the Transformation Today

Join the movement to see and celebrate the concealed weapons of greatness in every young person.