The idea came from seeing how family and social values of respect were disappearing. I saw loneliness and fear growing among teenagers, who spend more time connected to screens but end up more isolated than ever.
Claudia Daher – 7 November 2025
The Back Flap
In 2040, 15-year-old David discovers he and his friends are Earth’s final defense against an alien race determined to steal the planet’s water.
Guided by a mysterious alternate reality game created by his grandfather, R.A.T.S-Revolutionary Army of Teens-David and allies from around the globe must unite, train, and rise against a looming extraterrestrial threat. As they prepare for battle, they uncover hidden truths about the universe, face environmental catastrophe, and embrace their destiny as the last hope for humanity.
About the book
What is the book about?
R.A.T.S: Revolutionary Army of Teens, We Are One is a story of hope and unity. It follows a group of teenagers who join together to restore harmony, compassion, and respect in a world that has lost its values. Inspired by sacred wisdom from many traditions, the book reminds us that light always overcomes darkness and that we are all part of one creation.
When did you start writing the book?
I started writing it in October 2012 and completed it during the Covid period, revising it until two years ago.
How long did it take you to write it?
It took me about 11 years to write and 13 years for it to be fully edited and ready to publish.
Where did you get the idea from?
The idea came from seeing how family and social values of respect were disappearing. I saw loneliness and fear growing among teenagers, who spend more time connected to screens but end up more isolated than ever. Many films today show drugs, violence, and empty language — but I wanted to create something different: a story of adventure, love, and respect, free from those things. Seeing so many young people feeling alone, I decided to write something pure — a book that could bring unity, kindness, and hope among people of all nations and faiths, encouraging the young to build true friendships and to live in harmony with their families, or at least to find peace and respect with one another.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Yes. The book had so much more to say — the ideas kept flowing! But since I had to write everything in English, translate, take care of my family, my home, and work, the years passed quickly before I realized it. I was constantly running to keep up with technology and the story of humanity itself.
What came easily?
The idea of uniting young people from different countries came easily. I realized that no matter our color, religion, or social background, we all have families — and in the end, we are all the same.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
More than half of them were inspired by real people and real experiences.
Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write?
Yes, I was deeply inspired by Isaac Luria, Shimon Bar Yochai, and the Baal Shem Tov. Their teachings about light, unity, and the purpose of the soul have greatly influenced my writing.
Do you have a target reader?
Yes. I wrote this book because it has no promiscuity, offensive language, sex, drugs, or narcotrafficking. It can be read by anyone over 13. Behind the story, it brings many topics we can discuss in schools and society — family values, respect, forgiveness, climate change, and how we can help one another. I believe we must bring back the values that truly matter in life, such as kindness and respect for others.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process?
Yes. I love to sit in my home office, pray, and ask G-d to guide and inspire me so I never offend anyone. I like to listen to calm music and look through the glass doors at the blue sky, the garden, and the sounds of nature. At night, I enjoy writing by candlelight, surrounded by peace and tranquility.
Do you outline?
No, I don’t plan ahead. I write as the inspiration comes, letting the story flow naturally.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. But after I finished, it was essential to restructure the entire book. I’m not a professional writer, and at that time there was no AI — my “AI” was Kevin Anderson & Associates and Amanda A. Barnett!
Did you hire a professional editor?
Oh yes! My English is not perfect, so I sent it to Kevin Anderson & Associates in New York. They helped me all the way — translating, teaching me how to write, correcting, and guiding me. In the end, I was blessed to have a wonderful editor, Amanda A. Barnett, who has also worked with Angelina Jolie, Stephen King, Shirley MacLaine, and others. To me, we were a great team.
Do you listen to music while you write?
Always! I love meditation songs, classical music, lots of Hans Zimmer, and beautiful piano melodies that bring peace and inspiration.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to agents?
No. After so many years, one day after Covid I woke up and told my son, “Everyone says it’s impossible for a new author to be accepted — but time is passing, and I’m getting older. Please, just send it to two places — one in London and one in the US.”
I chose the one in London because of a picture of a Pegasus — I’ve always loved horses. A couple of months later, while working late at night, I found an email in my spam folder saying: “Congratulations, Claudia Daher! Out of thousands of submissions, we are pleased to say your book is incredible, and we’d love to publish it!” I almost fainted — I woke up my husband and son, and we all started jumping with joy!
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
I made the first drawing myself and sent it to Pegasus Publishing in London, where they gave it a professional touch that I was very happy with. The paintings inside the book were done by me, and a friend helped by adding some digital details. In the end, everything came out beautifully! Seeing these paintings in the book brings my dreams to life — the characters take form, soul, and spirit.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
I leave everything in the hands of Books Forward. They are helping, guiding, and supporting me every step of the way. They’re a great team!
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Never give up! Write with love, perseverance, and dedication. And when someone says, “It’s too hard,” remember — you are not everyone else! Having faith in G-d that everything will work out is fundamental.
About You
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in São Paulo, Brazil, and moved to Aruba 35 years ago.
Where do you live now?
I live in Aruba, a beautiful Dutch Caribbean island between Venezuela and the United States. Part of the book takes place here.
What would you like readers to know about you?
I want the best for humanity and for this young generation growing up in a world of wars, protests, pandemics, hunger, and sadness. Many don’t know the simple joys we once had — playing in the streets, small dances, or laughing with friends. Today, they are raised by screens and often don’t know where they are going.
I want readers to know that I believe even a small candle can light up a dark room — and that same candle never loses its light by lighting another. On the contrary, it creates more clarity and strength.
I also want young people to understand that no family is perfect. Even when we face delicate situations with parents, grandparents, or others, we can still choose to do what is right and good — and goodness always returns to us. And even if we didn’t come from a structured or united family, we can still create one of love, unity, and prosperity for our future.
I am a mother and grandmother who truly believes we can still bring peace and unity to humanity. I even wrote a song with my son, also called We Are One, which shares the same message of love and hope that inspired my book. We are one. If G-d is One, so We Are One.
What are you working on now?
At the moment, I’m waiting for my book to arrive.
End of Interview:
Get your copy of R.A.T.S. from Amazon US or Amazon UK.