Every Child Has a Story Worth Sharing
At Build My Story, we believe every student deserves to feel seen, heard, and celebrated, not just as a learner, but as a published author. We’ve created a classroom publishing platform where students write their own stories and see them transformed into real, printed books. Whether they’re writing about racing go-karts or conquering fears, kids become the heroes of their own narratives – while teachers gain a powerful way to meet literacy goals and spark engagement.
Our Story
Build My Story began with a simple idea: every child should have the chance to become an author. Founded by educators and entrepreneurs passionate about literacy, we’ve grown into a platform used by teachers across the country to spark creativity, build confidence, and engage families in learning.
We keep our program free for schools so every student can participate, regardless of background. By combining classroom resources, digital publishing tools, and high-quality printed books, we’re helping thousands of young writers share their voices with the world.
Built for Classrooms. Backed by Teachers.
Our program was designed side-by-side with real educators to support what matters most:
The real value isn’t just the finished book. It’s the process of writing the story, with support, structure, and purpose built into every step. When kids know their work will become a real book with their name on the cover, they stay engaged.
That proud author moment is not just a reward; it’s the reason they push through the hard parts of writing. Teachers get a simple way to guide students through meaningful literacy practice that fits with what they are already trying to teach. It’s not just fun, it’s effective, and that’s what makes it work.
Why We Do It
Empower Students
Build confidence by showing children their words have value.
Support Teachers
Provide a ready-to-go literacy project that works for any classroom.
Connect Families
Give parents a tangible way to celebrate and preserve their child’s creativity.
Meet the Team
Ben Spurr
Ben has always loved building things, from hands-on DIY projects to wood-fired pizzas. At Build My Story, he creates the systems and tools that make publishing simple for teachers. Outside of work, he’s happiest on an outdoor adventure, exploring new places and ideas.
Chuck Cook
Chuck started Build My Story after being inspired by his son Josiah and his wife Sally, a former primary school teacher. He wanted every child to feel the same pride Josiah felt seeing his own story come to life. Now in sunny Santa Barbara, Chuck combines his love for building ideas with his passion for helping kids share their voices.
Jake Robson
Jake is Chuck’s nephew and is from the UK. With a background in engineering and design, he’s focused on making the publishing program smooth and stress-free for teachers. When he’s not perfecting the app experience, he’s likely out on the golf course enjoying a new challenge.
Choose Your Role to Get Started
Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or school leader, we have resources for you.
