In a burned-out New York journalist’s quest to rediscover joy, Emma Riley embarks on a cross-country road trip to collect one thousand real-life smiles. Joined unexpectedly by wandering carpenter Riley Hayes, she gathers stories of everyday happiness—from grandkids and caramel apples to fireflies after storms and enduring love. Through flat tires, county fairs, and quiet confessions, Emma’s cynicism cracks, revealing hope, connection, and the slow bloom of something deeper. A heartfelt, humorous road-trip tale of finding light in ordinary moments and learning that smiles, once shared, multiply.
Maurice Whitaker is a passionate storyteller with a love for compelling characters and vivid worlds. When not writing, He enjoys reading, exploring nature, and sipping too much coffee. This is his debut work, crafted with heart and imagination.View all by Maurice Whitaker
